Table of contents:
2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44
What is aperture, optical stabilization, manual focus, diameter and other characteristics of a camera lens.
Digital cameras still outperform miniature sensors built into mobile devices in many ways. Knowing what to look for and how different companies define the same functions makes it much easier to choose optics.
Aperture
The lens aperture is similar to the pupil - it opens as much as the amount of light that needs to reach the camera's sensor. The maximum aperture is indicated by the letter f. It can range from f / 0.95 to f / 22. The designations differ - instead of f / 2.8, you can see 1: 2.8. But the number always indicates the same thing - the maximum aperture.
The lower the number, the wider the lens will open and the more light it will let through. Low aperture optics produce bokeh effects suitable for portraits. If you are using a zoom lens, you will see the maximum aperture range. The closer you zoom in, the smaller the maximum aperture.
Focal length
The focal length of the lens, that is, the distance from the clearest image to the camera sensor, is indicated in millimeters. Lenses without magnification have one number, while those that can zoom in on the picture have two numbers, for example 18–55 mm.
The shorter the focal length, the larger the piece of the photographed subject will fall into the picture. Therefore, for example, wide-angle lenses have a focal length range somewhere from 4.5 to 30 mm. This figure is usually indicated on the lens next to the aperture.
Objective diameter
Lens filters can be used to remove glare, change colors, or achieve beautiful effects. But first you need to know its diameter. It is measured in millimeters - you can find it next to the ø symbol, which denotes the diameter. Most often, this figure is indicated on the front of the lens or engraved closer to the top of the side where the filter is attached.
Automatic or manual focus
Autofocus, which can be powered by a conventional motor or a quieter ultrasonic motor, keeps the subject in focus without manually adjusting the depth of field. If you see optics with a switch labeled AF / MF, you can quickly turn the feature on and off, depending on whether you need precise focus control.
Jargon manufacturers
The most interesting functions are usually hidden behind labels specific to one or another manufacturer. But don't be fooled by acronyms - technologies are often identical across companies.
Optical image stabilization
This feature can be built into either the lens or the camera itself. It counteracts vibrations and other microscopic movements that make photos look blurry. Image stabilization makes your shots clearer, especially when you shoot with a wider aperture. For different brands, the function is indicated as follows:
- Sony: OSS (Optical SteadyShot).
- Nikon: VR (Vibration Reduction).
- Canon: IS (Image Stabilization).
- Sigma: OS (Optical Stabilization).
Full frame lens
Full-frame cameras use larger sensors, which allows the camera to let in more light for better quality shots. To use the entire surface of the sensor, you need a full frame lens, which may be abbreviated as follows:
- Sony: FE (mirrorless cameras).
- Nikon: FX.
- Canon: EF.
- Sigma: DG.
Crop lens
Crop sensor cameras are usually for the mainstream or enthusiast market. They don't allow you to take the same high-quality pictures as full-frame cameras, but they still produce better images than smartphones. Crop lenses can be recognized by the following abbreviations:
- Sony: E (mirrorless cameras).
- Nikon: DX.
- Canon: EF-S.
- Sigma: DC.
Ultrasonic focusing motor
These motors allow for quieter and faster focusing. They are more accurate than the slower electronic motors found in inexpensive lenses and are designated as:
- Sony: SSM.
- Nikon: SWM.
- Canon: USM.
- Sigma: HSM.
Professional lenses
These lenses are much more accurate and durable than typical consumer lenses. They use better glass and faster focusing motors. They are usually protected from moisture and dust. Professional lenses are most often designed for full frame cameras. You can recognize them like this:
- Sony: G.
- Nikon: Gold ring around the perimeter of the lens.
- Canon: L.
- Sigma: EX.
Low dispersion lenses
These optics eliminate chromatic aberration, a problem that can cause colors to separate. It is usually visible at the edges of the photo. There are programs for eliminating chromatic aberration, but in fact, not everyone can notice the difference. Such distortions can be removed by special lenses using different technologies:
- Sony: ED.
- Nikon: ED.
- Canon: ED.
- Sigma: APO.
Recommended:
The 3 most important criteria when choosing a manager for your money
The easiest way to achieve freedom while earning passive income is to entrust your money to a professional. We will tell you who is better to provide asset management
What to look for when choosing a PC gamepad
The PC gamepad is great for platformers, racing and fighting games. When choosing it, consider connection methods, form factor and other important characteristics
Photo Editor is the best free photo editor for Android
Until recently, many were firmly convinced that a good shot can only be taken with a professional camera with an expensive lens, and that you can normally edit a photo only in Photoshop. Modern smartphones have coped with the first half of this stereotype, and an Android program called Photo Editor with the second.
What to look for when choosing a smartphone camera
Is your smartphone camera important to you? Do you think the most important thing is the number of megapixels? We will tell you what to look for when choosing a camera
PHOTO LIFE HACK: 1 photo lens + 1 plastic bag = Vintage photos
We'll show you how to take amazing vintage photos without Photoshop - using a regular plastic bag and a colored marker