Digital Cameras' Lenses

Photographs are an incredible method of capturing moments in time, along with the emotion and imagination they can invoke. With all of the tools and technology available today, you can capture more than just what is seen. The color, lighting, angles, and depth all can change how a picture will look once it's printed.

When it comes to taking pictures, there's always the classic "point and shoot" method...it's great for capturing candid moments at special events, with friends and family, etc. But when it comes to REALLY capturing the moment, or creating a mood for your audience, there's a bunch of different ways to get the effect you want. Photo editing software, lenses, filters, digital effects, they can all help create the image that you are looking for.

This hub is specifically devoted to digital cameras' lenses. You will find information on how to figure out what lens you need, and reviews of a variety of lenses for different digital SLR cameras. If you are looking for a fixed focal point type lens for a range you shoot often, we will cover different types of prime lenses. If you're looking for more zoom and a wider range of control, then check out the zoom lenses we review as well.

Whether you are a novice or an experienced photographer, the basic rules still apply. For example, when shooting in a low light situation with a stationary subject, you will want to look for a smaller aperture setting so the camera can stay open wider and longer. This will allow more light in and give you a more natural image. Inversely, if you are shooting in a bright location with a moving subject, a higher aperture setting will keep the camera openning smaller for a shorter time.

Before looking for a digital SLR lens, you should know your camera. Lenses are made for each different camera and are rarely interchangeable. A standard 50mm Canon Rebel Lens is not going to fit on a Nikon D10. I admit, I've rigged a couple of lenses to work in my day, but the results weren't spectacular. In a pinch, it may work, but lenses are very delicate and can be very expensive. You're better off getting it right the first time.

Before using or buying your new digital SLR, make sure you know about ISO settings. In the days of film, this referred to your film speed. If you are shooting in a lowlight situation or at night, raising the ISO setting can make a huge difference. Most digital cameras can go upwards of a 1600 ISO setting. Having the optimal ISO settings available will broaden the range at which you can take photos.

Digital SLR lenses are made by a variety of companies. However, it is crucial that you use a reputable lensmaker for your camera. Personally, I prefer having a cheaper camera, but a higher quality lens. You could have a $2000 camera, but if you put a poor lens on it, you'll still get poor pictures. It's like having a house with no roof. Then it's just walls and a floor. Don't cheap out on a digital SLR lens, and you won't regret it.

When you use a digital SLR to take crisp and creative photos, don't forget that there's lots of software out there to help you edit your pictures even further. I personally use photoshop and picasa, but many programs out there can do basic editing. Photoshop especially has a wide variety of tools that you can use to produce different effects. But don't forget to use the right settings and the right lens when you take your picture. It's always easier to have a good picture to work with as a template.