Camera lenses.

Soon after I got my first Nikon digital SLR kit, I got my first Nikon prime lens. That was the Nikon 35mm lens made for APS-C sensors. Or as Nikon designates them, "DX". What I didn't know at the time was that the lens was going to change my perspective on photography. Was it for the better?

Most of my friends, and most of the professional photographers that I meet, use zoom lenses. Zoom lenses allow the photographer to attach one lens to his camera and change the focal length to either zoom in for a close up shot or to zoom out for a wider angle shot. Prime lenses simply don't zoom. If you are using a prime lens and you want a close up shot you have to move closer to your subject. You want a wider angle shot? Move farther away.

If you read all of the lens tests, reviews and personal opinions. Well, then you would never buy a lens. Lenses are all very similar to my golf game. Full of flaws. On the other hand. They almost all perform well in the right hands. Those will be the hands that have taken the time to learn each lens they use. Which every photographer should do with all of their equipment. So I say buy and use whatever will make you happy.

 So what makes me happy? I am primarily a landscape photographer. I don't need zoom lenses. I can usually move my feet to put the camera where I want it with the proper prime lens attached. For me they are easier to learn how to use effectively. And they afford me the opportunity to get a fantastic photo for a lot less money than a professional grade zoom lens costs.

That first 35mm lens taught me something that I had never realized. I can see the world in different focal lengths. If I attach a lens to my camera I can see everything in front of me in that focal length. I can look at a scene and decide how I want to capture it. Is it best with a wide shot or up close? I put on the lens of choice and move to compose my photo. It's a small part of my process. But it is one of my favorite parts.

I spent some time this past month selling some of my DX lenses. I did it to finance the purchase of a couple of new lenses for my kit. Yes. They are both prime lenses. And they fill gaps in my focal lengths. One of the lenses I sold was the original 35mm. I was a little sad to see it go. I think it changed my life for the better.