Photography which lens to use

Macro lenses have a unique internal structure that allows them to capture close ups with accurate detail, sharpness, and contrast. The purpose of this type of lens is to display subjects at life size or larger. The focal length of macro lenses usually varies between 35mm and mm.

However, many prefer telephoto lengths as being far from the subject makes it easier to illuminate the scene. Regardless of the distance the photographer is from their subject, macro lenses do not perform well in far distances. Tilt-shift lenses can be tilted and shifted to manipulate the vanishing points of the scene.

This is achieved by modifying the position of the optics in relation to the camera sensor. This type of lens is not commonly used by the regular public, but rather in specialized photography careers such as architecture photography and fine art photography.

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, while zoom lenses provide a range of focal lengths you can easily change. Because they do not have internal moving parts other than the diaphragma, prime lenses tend to be cheaper and lighter, as well as having better optical quality than zoom lenses. Zoom lenses are much more flexible and allow you to photograph a wide range of subjects without having to change your gear.

However, zoom lens tend to be slower and rarely match the perfection in quality of prime lenses. The speed of a lens is determined by its aperture. Since photography is all about light, hence the name, you should always aim to use a faster lens, especially if you want to become a professional photographer. Telephoto lenses get you close to a subject without actually approaching them.

Working with a telephoto lens is like shooting through binoculars because they magnify distant subjects. Now, more often than not, when I speak to new photographers looking to purchase their next lens, they want something on the telephoto end.

The most popular telephotos seem to be various flavors of mm or mm. These lenses are excellent when used properly. However, too often, telephoto zooms allow the photographer to become lazy. Telephoto lenses also compress distance, making everything appear closer together, as opposed to wide-angle lenses, which distort perspective and make things look separate.

This can be useful for landscapes when you want the sun or moon to appear large in comparison to other objects in the image. In this shot of the Shenandoah Valley at sunset, the telephoto lens compresses the scene, making the layers of mountains and mist look almost flat:. Of course, telephoto lenses are also excellent for sports, nature, and wildlife photography, where it can be difficult to get close. Sports, however, presents its own set of challenges. To be able to stop action without blur, you need a fast shutter speed.

Typically, faster telephoto lenses are required. These lenses are great for getting you closer to the action, but you need to be sure your shutter speed is fast enough! Leave a comment below! Book Photo Tours. Explore Articles. Contact Us. Book your trip now. Iceland Photo Tours. Which Camera Lens to Use? An Introduction to Focal Lengths. By Adam Welch. Verified Expert. Learn more. Understanding Focal Length There can be a somewhat confusing misconception when it comes to understanding the focal length of your camera lens.

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