You may be totally confused about where to start, when it comes to buying a lens for your digital SLR. Is it simply a matter of bigger is better? What about all the confusing technical terminology? How are you supposed to make a sound selection and find a great value at the same time? If you have some basic knowledge to help get you started, it doesn't have to be a daunting process.
Concerning Focal Length
The first thing you will have to keep in mind is what is alternatively known as either focal-length multiplier or focal-length magnification. This is the conversion that results from the APS-size sensor used on a digital SLR. This means that your digital SLR lens is going to behave in a way larger than it really is.
A 50 mm lens really gives you an angle of view compatible to a traditional 75 mm lens, because the conversion is about 1.5 to 1.6. 200 mm would be 300 mm and so on. However, it's important to note that this only accounts for the angle of view, and doesn't actually change the optics principles or distortion of a particular lens sense or style.
Look Out for Apochromatic Correction
Aprochromatic correction, image stabilization and digital only lenses are a few other features or options to keep in mind. Starting with the latter, digital only lenses provide great value but won't be compatible with a traditional camera, or potentially future SLRs with 35 mm lenses. Examples of this include the Nikon DX.
Apochromatic correction helps to improve image sharpness, and image stabilization will help you get better shots by counteracting camera shake or blur from slow shutter speeds. Also note that some camera bodies, such as those from Sony and Olympus, are designed to provide stabilization effects, and other cameras rely on the lens to provide image stabilization.
The Best Brands to Look For
You'll certainly have a wide range to choose from, when it comes to brands. Canon, which has a great reputation for high quality lenses and camera bodies as well, is undoubtedly the most recognizable of the bunch. In addition, you will find some great choices from Tamron, Olympus, Sigma, Nikon and a range of other manufacturers too.
You'll find that some of these brands may offer more customized solutions for a particular setting or style of photography. You also may only be interested in using the same brand for the lens and the camera body. This often offers greater synergy and performance for your shots, but it isn't a necessity in most cases. Whether or not you'd like to do this is entirely up to you.
This has been just a basic starting guide for camera lenses and digital SLR cameras. There is definitely more to consider, and of course you will have to cross the bridge of how much cash you need to end up spending as well. It's always better to buy one versatile, high quality lens than needing to buy a variety of more limited and lesser quality lenses, but you will always be able to find a great match for your specific needs and your budgetary constraints, whatever they may be.
