How to Choose the Right Camera Lens

By simply changing a lens, the scope of a potential image changes, too. Understanding the difference between lenses will help you get the best shot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Film
• Camera Filters
• Cameras
• Cameras
• Camera Bags
• Wide-angle Lens
• telephoto or "long lens"
• Camera Monopods
• Camera Lenses
• Camera Accessories
• Camera Flashes
• Camera Tripod
• Zoom Lenses
• Camera Straps
• Camera Lens Caps
• Camera Batteries
• Camera Macro Lenses

1. Choose a subject to photograph.

2. Opt for a telephoto lens (a lens with a focal length greater than 55 mm) to bring your subject closer.

3. Select a wide-angle lens (a lens with a focal length of less than 40 mm) to broaden the scope of your photograph.

4. Use a regular lens (a lens with a focal length of 40 mm to 55 mm) for most situations, because it offers the maximum aperture range, which allows you to photograph under a wider variety of lighting conditions.

5. Go for a zoom lens (a lens without a set focal length) to reduce expense and increase flexibility because it lets you shoot across a wide range of focal lengths from wide-angle to telephoto using one lens.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to focus precisely when using a telephoto lens because it shortens your depth of focus.
• Use a wide-angle lens in situations where you cannot back up to gain a broader perspective such as when you are indoors and when taking landscape shots.
• The variable focal length, or area that will be in focus, of a zoom lens requires longer shutter speeds, which limits the range of lighting conditions that you can use it in without a tripod and fast film.

on 7/31/2006 A lens with a wide range is always a good idea for someone that is starting out. 18-80 is usually a safe range. There are several lenses out there that are 300mm and above, but hold off until you are sure you want to spend the money. You will loose the high mm lenses less then you might think.