How to Choose a Canon Digital Camera Lens

Some Canon telephoto lenses include an off-white barrel to reflect heat

Canon manufactures a comprehensive line of interchangeable lenses for DSLR cameras.

Canon's EF lenses and EF lens mounts include electronic focus and aperture controls. The range of Canon consumer lenses and high-end professional lenses can suit the photographic needs and budgets of the avid photographer. Researching the type of photos you want to create and reading the product reviews can help you select the right lens.

Instructions

1. Define the type of photography that you want to pursue. A 24mm wide-angle lens works well for group shots and landscapes. A 100mm macro lens will magnify a subject for an exaggerated effect.

2. Select the focal range and other lens specifications. A faster lens, such as the normal 50mm, F/1.4, is versatile for outdoor and low-light photography.

3. View photographs shot with a few of the focal lengths you prefer. Compare photos of zoom lenses, such as 16-35mm, 17--40mm and 15-85mm. The Canon website features samples of images shot with specific lenses.

4. Read online and magazine reviews by professional reviewers. These reviews should list both the advantages and disadvantages of the lens. Read forums that can document favorable and unfavorable comments over a long period of time.

5. Visit an authorized dealer. Bring the Canon camera body and ask to try the lenses. Test the controls. The camera lens should feel comfortable in your hands as you access all of the buttons. If possible, rent a lens to test it in different lighting conditions and distances.

Tips & Warnings

• Canon offers the EF and EF-S lines of interchangeable lenses. A camera body will accept an EF-S lens if the body's lens mount displays a white square and a red dot.

• The "L" series lenses are the professional, luxury grade with a distinctive red circle near the front end of the lens barrel.

• The Image Stabilizer (IS) lenses help reduce the impact of camera shake. This feature adds to the cost of the lens.

• The "USM" designation stands for "ultrasonic motor." USM lenses allow quick and quiet auto-focus.

• Do not purchase a lens from an unauthorized dealer. Each lens comes with a warranty.

References

• SLR Photography Guide: Canon EF and EF-S Lenses Explained
• Canon: Canon EF Lens Lineup
• Canon: Canon Lens Selector

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish