What type of camera is characterized by interchangeable lenses?

The type of camera characterized by interchangeable lenses is the single lens reflex (SLR) camera. SLR cameras utilize a mirror and prism system to allow the photographer to view exactly what the lens is capturing through the viewfinder. This design provides the opportunity to attach different lenses, which vary in focal length, aperture, and other photographic qualities, enabling the photographer to adapt to different shooting conditions and creative intentions.

Interchangeable lenses are a significant advantage in SLR cameras, as they offer versatility for various types of photography, from wide-angle landscapes to close-up macro shots. This functionality is a hallmark of SLR systems, setting them apart from point-and-shoot cameras, which typically come with a fixed lens and limited manual controls. While digital cameras can include SLRs among others, the defining feature in this context is specifically the interchangeable lenses associated with the SLR design. Medium format cameras may also offer interchangeable lenses, but they are categorized differently based on the film or sensor size they utilize, rather than the reflex mechanism itself.