I have seen CMOS Imaging Sensors (OmniVision, Aptina, ST, etc) as well as Camera modules (like the ones in smartphones; e-con, OmniVision, etc), and I know there are the finished product cameras (Cannon, Nikon, Sony, etc). Now, I understand that sensor is only the imaging chip itself, and module is the chip on something that connects to something else. But, is there an common industry name for the different finished products (modules) that can be used in a DIY project? (maybe differentnames for differnet connection methods? with or without lenses?) (as far as finding it quickly on DigiKey, Mouser, Google, etc)?
Now, following this, for a DIY project - it would be really hard to use an imaging sensor due to its small footprint. So, if I am to get one of those small cmos modules, is there any need for supporting circuitry? Or it can be directly connected to a microprocessor to get an image/video?
Please bare with this question, I understand it is very basic to some of you, but it is not as clear to some.