Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

What are light-sensitive diodes in a camera sensor called?

1. Pixels

2. Photosites

3. Filters

4. Capacitors

The correct answer is: Photosites

Light-sensitive diodes in a camera sensor are referred to as photosites. Each photosite is a tiny photodetector that converts light into an electrical signal, which is the fundamental process by which cameras capture an image. When light hits a photosite, it generates a charge proportional to the amount of light it receives. This charge is then converted into a digital value by the camera's image processing system, ultimately forming the final image. This term is distinct from others; for example, while "pixels" refer to the individual elements that make up the digital image, they do not specifically denote the light-sensitive components of the sensor. Similarly, "filters" relate to optical elements used to modify the light entering the camera, and "capacitors" are components used in various electronic circuits and are not specific to the function of capturing light in a camera sensor. Understanding these terms helps clarify the role of photosites in the imaging process.