Camera Lens - Lens Mounts

Lens Mounts

Many Single-lens reflex cameras, and some rangefinder cameras have detachable lenses. A few other types do as well, notably the Mamiya TLR cameras and mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. The lenses attach to the camera using a lens mount, which contains mechanical linkages and, often also electrical contacts between the lens and camera body. The lens mount is an important issue for compatibility between cameras and lenses. Each major camera manufacturer typically has their own lens mount which is incompatible with others. Notable exceptions are the Leica M39 lens mount for rangefinders, M42 lens mount for early SLRs, the later Pentax K mount, and the Four Thirds System mount for DSLRs, which are used by multiple camera brands. Most large-format cameras take interchangeable lenses as well, which are usually mounted in a lensboard or on the front standard.