Camera Lenses - Camera Filters
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Camera Lenses
Many different types of lenses are available for both film cameras and
digital cameras. To keep the price affordable, point and shoot,
auto focus cameras are equipped with a fixed lens, commonly with zoom
capability so focal length can be varied. More expensive cameras,
such as SLR models, can accept interchangeable lenses. While
changing lenses may be somewhat inconvenient, better image qualities can
be achieved. For SLR cameras, you can choose standard fixed or zoom
lenses, as well as wide-angle, macro, or telephoto lenses. Each lens
has its own particular benefits. Versatile, standard lenses are used
for photographing anything from landscapes to portraits. Wide angle
lenses or wide-angle zoom lenses are used to take in a wider view.
They will help you include more of a scene in your image.
Macro lenses are used for close-up photos or magnified images.
Telephoto lenses let you zoom in close to a faraway object. When
choosing a lens, remember that focal length is the key to image character.
Check the camera lens manufacturer sites for lens specifications and features. All major camera manufacturers supply their own branded camera lenses. Other leading camera lens manufacturers include Tamron and Sigma.
Camera Filters
The primary types of lens filters are Ultraviolet (UV) filters, polarizing
filters, neutral density (ND) filters, and graduated filters. A UV
filter can improve contrast in outdoor photos. A polarizing filter
can reduce surface reflections and profoundly affect the color saturation
and contrast of a photographed image. An ND filter is used to reduce
the amount of light which passes through the lens, across the whole image,
while a graduated filter is used to darken one side of an image, such as a
bright sky.
Filters are used mainly for film cameras. For digital cameras, digital color correction software has removed the need for most lens filters. Only the effects of UV and polarizing filters cannot be produced digitally. Most photographers purchase a UV filter to protect their lens and a polarizing filter for its ability to produce dramatic visual effects.
Filters are available as round, square, or gelatin filter systems. They either slot in or screw in. Screw-in filters are round, made of glass, and have threaded rims sized to fit a specific size lens. These are a better choice if you use the filter regularly or use a UV or clear glass filter to protect your lens. They are used mainly for color balancing or correction. Close-up filters (also known as close-up lens adapters) are also screwed together and are an inexpensive way to capture close-up photos. Slot-in filters are more versatile and fit in a filter holder attached to the front of the lens. The same holder is used for all the lenses, and multiple filters can be used at the same time. Square, slot-in filters are plastic and are best for gradient or graduated color effects. Gelatin slot-in filters are made from gelatin and are used for color correction or balancing.
Leading camera filter manufacturers include Tiffen, Cokin, Lee, and Formatt. The Filter Connection is a major etailer of camera filter systems.
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