Names of These Lenses

edited December 2012 Posted in » Nikon D3100 Forum
Could some one define what each of these lenses are:

1. Kits lens
2. Prime lens
3. Wide angle lens
4. Telephoto lens

I am a newbie and this jargon confuses me a little. Also it would be great if some one can help me understand their differences from one another.

Comments

  • edited December 2012
    1. Kit lens = the 18-55mm lens that was supplied with the D3100. Another kit lens would be the 18-105mm.
    2. A prime lens = a fixed focal length like 50mm. It has good glass elements and is a lot sharper.
    3. Wide angle lens = a lens with a wide range, ideal for landscape shots. This is defined by a low focal length number so 18mm on the kit lens is the widest it will go.
    4. Telephoto lens = in simple terms, a lens that has a long fixed range (100mm +) and has a low aperture, meaning you can shoot at f/4 at 300mm. Mainly used for sport photography. You would see these being used at major football games.

    These are just some simple terms for you but can be more in depth if you wish. ;)
  • edited January 2013
    That was very helpful, thank you very much. This simple, easy to remeber explanation is what I was looking for.
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