UNDERSTAND LENS CHOICE
Become an expert in available technology and select the ideal optic
Unlike when shopping for cameras, photographers looking for a new lens are faced with a daunting variety of options. Even in the wide-angle category, there are many shapes, sizes and specifically targeted optics to choose from, and it can be difficult to know which models are the perfect match for your current requirements. One positive aspect is that, regarding lens features, there are generally fewer ‘gimmicks’ than can regularly be found in the specifications of camera bodies. The majority of technologies included in modern lenses do benefit every user, from beginner to professional, due to the increases in sharpness or other optical performance they provide – although prospective buyers must decide if the additional costs these features instil are justifiable for their regular print size requirements.
The choice of wide lens must be carefully based on two key factors – compositional needs and general experience level of operating at ultra-inclusive focal lengths. The next choice to be made is exactly how wide a lens is needed. This should be informed by a knowledge of the camera bodies the new lens will be paired with and how you intend to regularly put it to work. An understanding of sensor type and technology is useful, if you are to select a setup that will deliver the results you desire. Unlike telephoto lenses, wide-angle optics have not benefited significantly from digital technology – while the former receive enhanced reach due to sensor size effects, this reduces the usefulness of a wide-angle lens. In the digital age it is no longer easy to consider lenses and cameras independently. Edge-to-edge image quality must also be considered – even professional optics can suffer a loss of sharpness and colour rendition towards the periphery of images shot at the widest focal lengths. Meanwhile a common problem experienced with wide-angle optics is edge vignetting. Although this can be easily reduced in software, optics that exhibit the aberration in abundance may limit use of additional accessories, such as filters, which can exacerbate the problem.
One strategy is to start with a standard wide optic of around 28mm (full-frame equivalent) and then move to the 12mm to 16mm range when you are confident with effective compositions. This will likely be better for your images during your growth as a photographer.