Which component of a camera influences the field of view (FOV) and focuses light?

The lens of a camera is the primary component that influences the field of view (FOV) and focuses light. The lens systems consist of multiple glass elements designed to bend and direct incoming light onto the camera sensor. The focal length of the lens determines the extent of the field of view; a longer focal length provides a narrower field of view and greater magnification, while a shorter focal length offers a wider field of view.

Moreover, the lens allows for the focusing of light, which is critical for capturing clear images. By adjusting the lens positioning, the camera can achieve different focus points, ensuring that objects at varying distances from the lens can be represented sharply in the image.

In contrast, while the iris is responsible for controlling the amount of light that enters the camera by adjusting the aperture size, it does not directly affect the FOV in the same way the lens does. The processor handles image processing tasks and analysis, while the sensor captures the light to create an image, but they do not influence FOV or focus in terms of optics. Thus, the lens plays a crucial role in managing both the field of view and the focus, making it the correct choice for this question.