Choosing the right camera lens can sometimes be a tough task, because where do you actually start? Especially as a beginner, it is difficult to navigate through all the technical terms and specifications. We are here to help you, and to find the perfect match for your needs. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through different lenses, teach you all about the different features and by the end you will be a true expert!
What makes a camera lens perfect for you?
Before we delve into the different types of lenses, let us first understand what makes a lens 'perfect'. The perfect lens is basically the one that meets your specific needs and captures the image the way you want it. This is often done based on the type of photography you practice, be it portrait photography, fashion photography or just product photography is. There is a matching lens for every photographer.
Prime or zoom?
One of the first choices you have to make is between a prime lens and a zoom lens. Prime lenses have a fixed focal point, meaning you can't zoom in or out. They are great for situations where you want control over the frame and sharpness/depth effects. Zoom lenses, on the other hand, offer flexibility and are useful in situations where you need to react quickly to changing scenes.
Focal length and creative possibilities
The focal length of a lens determines how much fits in the frame and how large subjects appear. A short focal length (e.g. 24mm) is ideal for landscapes, while a longer focal length (e.g. 200mm) is great for capturing details at a distance.
Tip: experiment with different focal lengths to discover your artistic potential. Zoom in to capture details or zoom out for a wider perspective.
One of the first choices you have to make is between a prime lens and a zoom lens. Prime lenses have a fixed focal point, meaning you can't zoom in or out. They are great for situations where you want control over the frame and sharpness/depth effects. Zoom lenses, on the other hand, offer flexibility and are useful in situations where you need to react quickly to changing scenes.
Focal length and creative possibilities
The focal length of a lens determines how much fits in the frame and how large subjects appear. A short focal length (e.g. 24mm) is ideal for landscapes, while a longer focal length (e.g. 200mm) is great for capturing details at a distance.
Tip: experiment with different focal lengths to discover your artistic potential. Zoom in to capture details or zoom out for a wider perspective.
Aperture and light sensitivity in camera lenses
Aperture is another crucial aspect of lenses. A lower f-number (e.g. f/1.8) means a larger aperture and more light, which is useful in low-light conditions. This makes it possible to create beautiful, blurred backgrounds, also known as the bokeh-effect.The right camera lens: autofocus versus manual focus
Modern lenses often offer fast and accurate autofocus, but there are times when you might prefer manual focus for more control. Portrait photographers, for example, often appreciate the accuracy of manual focus when capturing eyes. Tip: If you like a combination of both, consider lenses with full-time manual focus, which allow you to focus manually while autofocus is active.
Quality above all
Regardless of the type of lens you choose, it is important to invest in quality. A high-quality lens can make a significant difference in the sharpness, colour reproduction and overall image quality of your photos. Consider the glass used in the lens and the overall build quality. For example, lenses with special coatings can reduce lens flare and provide better performance in backlight.
This prime lens is popular among beginners. With a fixed focal length of 50mm, it is ideal for portraits and general photography. The large maximum aperture of f/1.8 creates beautiful blurred backgrounds (bokeh) and performs well in low light. Moreover, the lens is affordable, lightweight and delivers sharp images.
2. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (Kit Zoom Lens):
Nikon's AF-P DX NIKKOR zoom lens is often offered as a kit lens with Nikon entry-level cameras. With a versatile focal length range of 18-55mm, this one is suitable for a variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits. The built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) helps reduce shake, which is especially useful when shooting at slower shutter speeds. It is an affordable and easy-to-use lens for everyone.
3. Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS (Prime Lens):
Designed for Sony E-mount cameras, it offers a focal length of 35mm. The lens is compact, lightweight and delivers sharp images with a nice, blurred background. With a maximum aperture of f/1.8, it works extremely well in low-light situations. The built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) helps stabilise shots, which is especially beneficial for beginners still working on their stability.
Regardless of the type of lens you choose, it is important to invest in quality. A high-quality lens can make a significant difference in the sharpness, colour reproduction and overall image quality of your photos. Consider the glass used in the lens and the overall build quality. For example, lenses with special coatings can reduce lens flare and provide better performance in backlight.
Three popular, beginner-friendly camera lenses
1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM (Prime Lens)This prime lens is popular among beginners. With a fixed focal length of 50mm, it is ideal for portraits and general photography. The large maximum aperture of f/1.8 creates beautiful blurred backgrounds (bokeh) and performs well in low light. Moreover, the lens is affordable, lightweight and delivers sharp images.
2. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (Kit Zoom Lens):
Nikon's AF-P DX NIKKOR zoom lens is often offered as a kit lens with Nikon entry-level cameras. With a versatile focal length range of 18-55mm, this one is suitable for a variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits. The built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) helps reduce shake, which is especially useful when shooting at slower shutter speeds. It is an affordable and easy-to-use lens for everyone.
3. Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS (Prime Lens):
Designed for Sony E-mount cameras, it offers a focal length of 35mm. The lens is compact, lightweight and delivers sharp images with a nice, blurred background. With a maximum aperture of f/1.8, it works extremely well in low-light situations. The built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) helps stabilise shots, which is especially beneficial for beginners still working on their stability.
Getting started finding your camera lens
Choosing the right camera lens can be a challenging but exciting task. We therefore hope to have given you some more insight and some great examples with this blog. It's all about understanding your own needs and finding a lens that suits your unique style and preferences. So, get out there and dare to experiment.Still have specific questions about camera lenses or need more advice? We are always here to help you. And once you have found that perfect lens, you can of course come and try it out to your heart's content at Atelier Oost Amsterdam.
