Prime lenses are a type of camera lens that has a fixed focal length. This means that you cannot zoom in or out with a prime lens, unlike a zoom lens. There are many reasons why you should own a prime lens for photography. Here are a few of our thoughts and some options for your digital or film journey….
Sharper Images – Prime lenses are typically sharper than zoom lenses. This is because prime lenses have fewer moving parts, which means that there is less distortion and aberration. Prime lenses tend to have a wider maximum aperture, therefore they tend to be “faster”. They let more light in. And you can use them in low light with a higher shutter speed and lower ISO.
Better Bokeh – Bokeh is the blurriness of the background in a photo. Prime lenses are better at creating bokeh than zoom lenses. This is because prime lenses have wider apertures, which allows more light to enter the camera and create a smoother blur. Why bokeh? It helps your subject “pop” – the use of bokeh in backgrounds is highly effective at drawing viewers’ eyes to the focal point of the image, your subject.
Image: Tom Bol Photography
More Control (Sorta) – Prime lenses give you more control over your photography. This is because you cannot zoom in or out with a prime lens, you have to move your feet to get the framing you want. This forces you to think more about your composition and makes you a better photographer. I often find myself slowing down my photography process due to this, really enabling myself to be present, careful and creative!
