How to Use a Telephoto Lens?
Telephoto lenses allow you to capture faraway subjects as if they were right next to you. Also, because of the way that telephoto lenses are designed, your subject can be in crisp focus against a blurred background. This is a signature feature of telephoto lenses and is used to great effect by nature photographers. Because of the powerful magnification of a telephoto lens, shakiness becomes a problem. But as long as you follow some general guidelines, the pictures you take with a telephoto lens will turn out great.
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Instructions
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Use a tripod. Although some cameras come with features that correct for shakiness (sometimes called Vibration Reduction or Image Stabilization), telephoto lenses will work best when held completely steady.
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Set the shutter speed to be greater than or equal to the reciprocal of the telephoto lens length (in the event that you do want to use a tripod). For example, set the shutter speed to 1/500 of a second for a lens length of 500 mm. Although it is not as good as a tripod, it will cut down on image blur.
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Hold your breath while taking the picture. This will stabilize the camera.
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Practice focusing on subjects quickly. It can be very hard to properly and quickly focus a telephoto lens on a subject. Nature walks provide a good opportunity for practice. Alternatively, you can buy a camera that has an automatic focus feature.
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Capitalize on the advantages of using a telephoto lens. Because you have the ability to take pictures at great distances, your subjects will act more natural and are less likely to be affected by your presence. This is why telephoto lenses are so popular with nature photographers.
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Tips & Warnings
Extension tubes can increase the focal length of your telephoto lens and make it possible to focus on close subjects.
