Why Some Photographers Prefer Prime Lenses

If you are new to photography, one of the most important distinctions you should learn is the difference between prime and zoom lenses. While neither is better than the other, they each have distinct advantages and disadvantages, which is why some photographers prefer primes and some stick with zooms. This helpful video discusses why one photographer prefers primes.

Coming to you from Robin Wong, this informative video discusses some of the reasons he prefers prime lenses over zooms. The important thing to remember is that neither is better than the other; they simply have different characteristics that make them better or worse suited for certain situations and shooting styles. In fact, even within the same genre, photographers can differ. For example, even wedding photographers differ in their choices. Some prefer primes for their thinner depth of field, better light-gathering power, and generally higher image quality. Others prefer zooms because they allow them to be versatile and able to respond readily to quickly evolving situations. And, of course, there is no reason you can't own a collection that consists of both! Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wong. 

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Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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