What does the aperture control in a camera?

The aperture in a camera is crucial because it directly influences the amount of light that enters the lens and reaches the image sensor. This control is adjusted via the aperture settings, which determine how wide or narrow the lens opening is. A wider aperture allows more light, resulting in a brighter image, while a narrower aperture restricts the amount of light, leading to a darker image. Additionally, the aperture setting impacts depth of field: a wider aperture results in a shallower depth of field, creating a blurred background effect, whereas a narrower aperture yields a greater depth of field, keeping more of the scene in focus.

The other options do not pertain to the function of the aperture. The type of lens used can affect various aspects of photography, such as focal length and perspective, but it does not control light entry; rather, it complements the aperture's function. Similarly, the model of the camera determines features and capabilities, but it is not directly responsible for light management through aperture settings. Lastly, resolution pertains to the detail captured in an image, which is influenced by sensor quality but is not affected by the aperture itself. Thus, understanding the role of aperture is essential for achieving the desired exposure and artistic effects in photography.