Are you an amateur photographer looking to improve your skills and expand your portfolio? While one type of lens may be perfect for portraits, it may fall short when photographing the night sky—or vice versa. To capture a variety of subjects, you’ll need a variety of lenses. Learn more about the most popular types of camera lenses and how they’re used.
Standard
This is likely the lens your camera came with. With a mid-range focal length between 35mm and 85mm, a standard lens is perfect for portraits and street photography. Your photos will reflect what the human eye sees.
Wide Angle
To achieve a wide angle, you’ll need to shorten your focal length. Capture magnificent skylines and landscapes using a high-quality wide-angle lens with a focal length between 14mm and 35mm.
Hot Tip:
For the widest angle possible, go for a fisheye lens. The focal length is between 4mm and 14mm. These lenses create a distortion around the edges that mimics—you guessed it—a fish’s point of view. Fisheye lenses are great for creative points of view!
Macro
These lenses are built specifically to capture sharp details up close. If you want to photograph a product you’re selling, a macro lens will let you magnify every nook and cranny. The focal length can be anywhere from 35mm to 200mm, and the lens aims to shoot subjects at life size (1:1) or larger. With a well-built camera lens and creative shot composition, you can make your subject appear larger than life.
Telephoto
To capture clear subjects from a distance, use a long focal length—at least 85mm. Telephoto lenses are useful for photographing wildlife, as they allow you to keep a safe distance while getting a clear image of the animal. If you’re shooting with a telephoto lens, invest in a tripod or other stabilizing equipment; telephoto lenses are bulky and can affect the balance of the camera.
Whether you’re a novice hobbyist or a seasoned photographer, have a working knowledge of various types of camera lenses and how they’re used. This handy list can help you search for new equipment as you expand your horizons and shoot a variety of subjects.
Image Credit: luchschenF; File #: 337636463; DSLR mirrorless camera with wide-angle lens
