Whether you're an old hat at photography or this is your first go around with a digital single lens reflex camera, you need a digital camera lens. Chances are, you'll actually need several. If you have no idea what the different lenses mean or are used for, read on.
There are different types of lenses that will do very different things. The standards are normal, wide angle, and telephoto lenses. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Part of the art and skill of photography is knowing what to use for each occasion you'll be shooting. Normal lenses are for your every day, candid or formal shots. You will take photos that represent exactly what you are seeing, with your naked eye. If you want a range more than 40-50 mm, you will want to go with an additional lens.
The most widely used lens for a digital camera is a zoom lens. Without a zoom lens, you won't have a lot of flexibility with the distance you can shoot a picture from. You also won't be able to get those precious up close shots that everyone loves. There are many different kinds of zoom lenses and it really just depends on what your subject matter is and how much detail you're looking to obtain.
The more common zoom lenses start with the fixed zoom lens. This lens doesn't actually zoom in on anything. If you want to get fuller detail or more up close smiles, you will need to put less distance between yourself and your subjects. These are the lenses that typically come standard when you buy a camera.
Optical zoom lenses actually move and zoom on an object. These lenses magnify the subject within the lens and allow for more flexibility when photographing. An object is usually magnified 3x, 5x, 10x, 20x, or more with an optical zoom lens. The longer the zoom lens, the more likely you are to have issues with shaking because of the additional weight. There are also things such as stability control to prevent blurring of your images.
Digital zoom lenses on standard digital cameras aren't really zoom lenses in their true form. These lens do nothing more than magnify the image. The lens does not give any more clearer image because it doesn't actually move. These are typical of cheaper cameras. If you're not looking for up close and personal shots, this may work for you.
Zoom lenses usually go up in steps. You can get a zoom lens that shoots 40mm-75mm, 75mm-125mm and so on. For special photography such as weather shots and shots of people from a great distance, there are special lenses, as well. Each of course is larger, harder to manage and more expensive. The larger lenses will give you the professional shot you need.
Another thing you will want to look into is a prime lens. Whatever lens you choose, shop around and make sure you get the best deal possible.
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