As a photographer, having the right lenses is crucial to capturing the perfect shot. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this article, I will discuss three lenses that every photographer should have in their toolkit. These lenses are versatile, high-quality, and essential for capturing a wide variety of shots.
As a photographer, I cannot overstate the importance of choosing the right lens for the job. The lens you choose can make or break your shot, and it’s important to understand the different types of lenses and their uses.
1) A Wide Angle Lens
A wide-angle lens is a must-have for any photographer. It allows you to capture a wider field of view, making it perfect for landscape and architectural photography. It typically has a focal length of 35mm or shorter.
Here are some sub-sections that highlight the benefits of a wide-angle lens for these types of photography.
Landscape Photography
When shooting landscapes, a wide-angle lens allows you to capture more of the scene in a single frame. This is particularly useful when trying to capture a sweeping vista or a wide open space. With a wide-angle lens, I can create a sense of depth and perspective that draws the viewer into the scene. Additionally, a wide-angle lens can help me capture more of the foreground, which can add interest and context to the image.

Architectural Photography
A wide-angle lens is also essential for architectural photography. It allows me to capture the entire building or structure in a single frame, even when standing close to the subject. This is particularly useful when photographing tall buildings or structures that are difficult to capture from a distance. With a wide-angle lens, I can also create a sense of grandeur and scale, making even small buildings look impressive.
Overall, a wide-angle lens is an essential tool for any photographer looking to capture stunning landscapes and architecture. It allows me to create images that are both immersive and impactful, drawing the viewer into the scene and making them feel like they are part of the experience.
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2) A Standard Lens
As a photographer, I believe that a standard lens is essential in every photographer’s kit. It is a versatile lens that is perfect for everyday use and can capture a wide range of subjects. A standard lens typically has a focal length of around 35mm or 50mm, which is similar to the human eye’s field of view.

Street Photography
A standard lens is ideal for street photography because it allows you to capture the scene as it is. It is not too wide or too narrow, so you can easily capture the essence of the street without any distortion.
With a standard lens, you can capture the people, architecture, and atmosphere of the street in a natural and realistic way.
It is also a discreet lens, which means that you can blend in with the crowd and capture candid moments without drawing too much attention to yourself.

Portrait Photography
A 50mm lens is also great for portrait photography. It is a versatile lens that can capture both full-body shots and headshots without any distortion. With a standard lens, you can capture the subject’s face in a natural and flattering way. It is typically a fast lens, which means that you can achieve a shallow depth of field and blur the background, making the subject stand out even more.
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3) A Telephoto Lens
A telephoto lens is a must-have for any photographer looking to capture distant subjects. This type of lens has a long focal length, allowing you to zoom in and get close to your subject without physically moving closer.
Wildlife Photography
When it comes to wildlife photography, a telephoto lens is essential. It allows you to capture images of animals from a safe distance, without disturbing them or putting yourself in danger.
A telephoto lens with a long focal length, such as 300mm or 400mm, is ideal for this type of photography. This will allow you to get close-up shots of animals without having to get too close.
Sports Photography
Sports photography also benefits from a telephoto lens. It allows you to capture action shots from a distance, without getting in the way of the athletes or the game.
A telephoto lens with fast autofocus is ideal for this type of photography, as it will allow you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. A lens with a focal length of 70-200mm is a good option for most sports photography.
Portrait Photography
Portrait photography is getting mentioned here again because of the epic 85mm focal length, although more of a short telephoto lens this still gives you greater reach than standard lenses.

85mm is my longest-reaching prime lens and I use it a ton! It’s perfect for that upper body and head portrait. Or just the neck/head if you get close enough.
You can take portraits with longer lenses like 90mm or 110mm, 85mm is just a more common focal length for it.
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Understanding Lens Specifications
When choosing a lens, it’s important to consider the specifications to ensure that it meets your needs. Here are some of the key specifications to understand:
Focal Length
The focal length of a lens is measured in millimeters and determines the angle of view and magnification. A shorter focal length (e.g. 18mm) provides a wider angle of view, while a longer focal length (e.g. 200mm) provides a narrower angle of view and greater magnification.
Aperture
The aperture refers to the opening in the lens that allows light to pass through. It is measured in f-stops, with a lower number indicating a larger aperture and more light entering the lens. A larger aperture also results in a shallower depth of field, which can be useful for creating a blurred background effect.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization (IS) is a feature that helps to reduce camera shake and blur in photos. It can be especially useful when shooting in low light or using a longer focal length. Some lenses have built-in IS, while others require the use of a tripod or other stabilizing device.
Maintaining Your Lenses
As a photographer, I know how important it is to take care of my lenses to ensure they last as long as possible and produce the best possible images. Here are a few tips on how to maintain your lenses:
Keep Them Clean
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your lenses is to keep them clean. I always carry a microfiber cloth with me to wipe away any dust or smudges that may get on my lenses while I’m shooting.
If I notice any dirt or grime on my lenses, I use a lens cleaning solution and a lens cleaning tissue to gently clean them.
Store Them Properly
When I’m not using my lenses, I store them in a lens case & bag to protect them from dust, moisture, and other potential damage. I also make sure to keep them in a dry, cool place to prevent any mold or mildew from growing.
Avoid Touching the Glass
I always try to avoid touching the glass on my lenses with my fingers, as the oils from my skin can leave smudges and potentially damage the coating on the lens. If I need to touch the lens, I use a lens-cleaning solution and a lens-cleaning tissue to wipe away any fingerprints or smudges.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your lenses last as long as possible and continue to produce high-quality images.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential lenses for a beginner photographer?
As a beginner photographer, it’s important to have a versatile set of lenses that can cover a wide range of shooting scenarios.
I recommend starting with a standard zoom lens, such as an 18-55mm or 24-70mm, which can be used for everyday shooting.
A prime lens with a wide aperture, such as a 50mm f/1.8 or 35mm f/1.8, is also a great addition for low light situations and shallow depth of field.
Which lenses are best for landscape photography?
For landscape photography, you’ll want to capture wide vistas and sharp details. A wide-angle lens with a focal length of 10-24mm or 16-35mm is ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes, while a telephoto lens with a focal length of 70-200mm can be used to isolate details and compress the scene.
What are the best lenses for portrait photography?
Portrait photography requires a lens that can capture sharp details and beautiful bokeh. A prime lens with a wide aperture, such as an 85mm f/1.8 or 50mm f/1.4, is perfect for creating a shallow depth of field and separating the subject from the background.
A telephoto lens with a focal length of 70-200mm can also be used to compress the scene and create a flattering perspective.
What are the top three lenses for wildlife photography?
Wildlife photography requires a long telephoto lens to capture animals from a distance without disturbing them. A 300mm or 400mm lens is a great starting point, but a 500mm or 600mm lens can provide even more reach.
A teleconverter can also be used to extend the focal length of the lens.
What are the must-have lenses for travel photography?
When traveling, it’s important to have a versatile set of lenses that can capture a wide range of scenes. A standard zoom lens, such as an 18-55mm or 24-70mm, is perfect for everyday shooting.
A wide-angle lens with a focal length of 10-24mm or 16-35mm can be used to capture sweeping landscapes, while a telephoto lens with a focal length of 70-200mm can be used to isolate details.
Which lenses are best for low-light photography?
Low light photography requires a lens with a wide maximum aperture, such as f/1.4 or f/1.8. A prime lens with a wide aperture, such as a 50mm f/1.4 or 35mm f/1.8, is perfect for low-light situations.
A zoom lens with a wide aperture, such as a 24-70mm f/2.8 or 70-200mm f/2.8, can also be used.