1.
Fixed Focal Length
Fixed lenses offer some advantages over zoom. They’re generally
smaller and lighter, with wider maximum apertures and superior image quality.
An ultra-fast (eg f/1.8) 50mm lens is perfect for low light, 85-105mm is ideal
for portrait, while a fast 300m (or longer) tele is a popular addition to any
wildlife or sports shooter’s kit.
2.
TELEPHOTO ZOOM
Telephotos make subjects seem closer. They’re great for sport and
wildlife, while short teles are good for portraits. Telephotos magnify camera
shake, so consider one with Image Stabilisation if your camera doesn’t already
have it, or buy one with a wide maximum aperture.
3.
STANDARD ZOOM
Most DSLRs come with a standard zoom – that is, one which spans from
moderate wide angle to short telephoto. These ‘kit’ lenses are fine for most
purposes, but there are alternatives that offer superior image and/or wider
maximum aperture – at a price premium, of course.
4.
SUPERZOOMS
Want a one-lens solution for your photography? Get a superzoom.
While they rarely compare with shorter-range lenses in image quality, a
18-200mm types lens offer the benefit of speed and convenience. Good for
shooting at moderate print sizes, don’t expect to be making pin-sharp,
aberration free prints at exhibition size.
5.
WIDEALNGLE ZOOM
Wideangle lenses make subjects seem further away, enabling you to
get more in the shot – perfect for landscapes and architecture. Among the most
popular wideangle zooms are the 10-20mm and 12-24mm ranges. Superwide lenses
cause more distortion but can also create a sense of drama.
6.
MACRO LENSES
Many
lenses misleadingly sport the ‘macro’ moniker, but a true dedicated macro lens
lets you get close enough to reproduce your subject at life-size (or half
life-size) on the sensor. Macro lenses come in a range of focal lengths, from
standard to telephoto, and can even be used with extension tubes for greater
magnification.
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