Jacobs Digital | Lenses

Whichever DSLR you choose, there are a wide variety of lenses available, each delivering a particular effect. The main candidates for your shopping list are:

System Compatibility
Before you select any lens you need to know if it’s compatible with your DSLR’s lens mount, and that generally means buying same brand lenses. Exceptions to the rule are independents Sigma, Tamron and Tokina, who produce typically less expensive alternatives.

Zooms
A sensible all-rounder for those starting out is an 18-55mm ‘standard’ zoom, and entry level DSLRs usually offer these as part of a bundle deal. Supplementing this with a second lens – say 70 -200mm – will let you get even closer to your subject without breaking the bank.

Telephoto
For portraits, a telephoto with a focal length around 90mm is more suitable. Such lenses provide a flattering perspective on the face and reduce depth of field – the amount of the scene in front and behind the subject in focus – so that attention is drawn to your subject rather than a potentially distracting background.

Macro/Close Up
For the ability to get very close in on the detail of a subject, a macro lens with a focal length between 50mm and 100mm is the one to choose. Such lenses, particularly suited to photographing flowers, insects and still life set ups, usually boast a life size magnification factor.

Wide-angle
A wide-angle lens – say 18mm or 28mm – is perfect for landscapes, travel photography and group portraits as it provides a broad field of view, allowing you to squeeze in as much of the scene as possible.

Image Stabilisation & Vibration Reduction
If your DSLR doesn’t feature built-in image stabilisation, then it’s worth investing in a lens that does, to avoid blur arising from camera shake when shooting at maximum zoom and/or in low light. Canon and Nikon market a range of IS (Image Stabilisation) and VR (Vibration Reduction) lenses respectively.