How to Find a Quality Digital SLR Camera Lens?

Answer 1

Artistic photographers may prefer a still camera over digital. With the advancement in digital SLR cameras photographers have more flexibility and options to work with. Let this guide help you find a great digital SLR Lens.

▪ Step 1: Determine the brand of digital SLR camera you own. Lenses are unique to each name brand and are not interchangeable. You must purchase and use lenses that are made for your cameras model. A digital camera lens is not the same as a still camera lens where you might be able to get away with interchanging lenses from other name brands. Digital camera lenses actually connect electronically relaying information back and forth to the camera.

▪ Step 2: Decide on a focal length. There are two main types, prime and zoom. Prime lenses offers a fixed focal length meaning it cannot be change, provide a clearer picture, are lighter in weight and are inexpensive in comparison. Prime lenses are the best to use for pictures taken in low light without the flash. Zoom lenses have a changeable focal length and are the most common type of lenses used with digital cameras because they provide flexibility. Zoom lenses range in price and are heavier than prime lenses. Higher quality zoom lenses will be expensive because of a wider range of focal length and optical clarity at each length. Super zoom lenses are the highest range of focal point but the does not mean this is the best lens to purchase. Once you determine the type and level of Photography you will be doing you will most likely want to buy a specialty zoom lens in the focal length range you use the most.

▪ Step 3: Determine a maximum aperture. A wider maximum aperture lens will let in more light allowing you to take high quality clear photographs without the use of flash. This is specifically important in areas of natural lighting, overcast conditions or low lighting. The depth of will determine the depth of field; this is important in photographs where the photographer wants to have a focal point blurring the background. The faster shutter speed prevents motion blur, especially in photographs of lower lighting conditions.

▪ Step 4: Choose a direct or indirect lens manufacturer. Many third party lens manufacturer’s sell similar lenses to direct manufacturer’s for a reduced price. Usually the savings will cost you in quality but some indirect lenses are now offering comparable quality and features to direct lenses. Indirect providers are interchangeable between cameras as long as the lenses mount fits.

▪ Step 5: Choose extra lens features you will need. Digital SLR lens offer extra features; depending on price you can purchase lenses with a non-rotating front element, silent autofocus, crop reduction, full-time manual focus, internal zoom, superior optics and image stabilization. Which extra features you will need to splurge on is a personal and professional decision.

Whether a hobbyist or professional photographer, photography is fun and creative. Research available lens brands connectable to your digital camera, decide on a focal length, shutter speed and extra features suitable for your style of photography. Your digital SLR camera lenses will make your photography a rewarding creative experience.