Prime photo lenses

Nowadays there are two general types of photo lenses: zoom lenses and prime lenses. All photo lenses can be divided in these two groups. Each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages against each other.

Basically, a prime lens has a fixed focal length, in other words, you can’t zoom it in or out. For example, a 20 mm prime lens is fixed in it’s focal length and in order to fill the frame, with the subject you are shooting, you’ll need to get closer. And vice versa.

For a long time there were only prime lenses in use, zoom lenses where created only in recent decades. Today they’re made in good quality and give high quality results. But still, prime lenses are not dead.

Why, you’d ask. Well, the best thing about the prime lenses is the maximum aperture you can get for the price you pay. Construction of a prime lens requires less glass because it’s focal length is fixed, therefore you can afford a wider aperture. Other advantage is the high quality of the image it gives. Because of less elements in the lens images are sharper. And because of the same reason the lens is lighter and smaller then a zoom lens of equivalent focal length and maximum aperture.

So, let’s sum up the advantages. Wide maximum aperture, sharp images, lighter weight, smaller in size and the price you pay for it all is lower compared to a zoom lens that gives you equivalent image quality and the same aperture at the same focal length.

What about disadvantages? Well, I can see only one, and it is the reason the zoom lens was created. The ability to change the focal length without changing over the lens itself.

Of course, today you can get a zoom lens that can offer you a wide aperture and a sharp image at a cost of weight, size and a higher price tag.

On the other hand, if you need to cover a wide range of focal lengths you will need more then one prime lens, this could make you pay more then for a single high quality and fast zoom lens covering the range of focal lengths you need.

Conclusion: it all comes down to your needs and budget. Before you buy you need to think what your needs are, then shop around and make your choice.