I dont quite understand all the numbers/letters on Lens.

[GoldFISH_no641]

I'm hearing lots of great stuff about the 50mm and the 85mm being great lenses, but I have no idea what the "f" "1.4" "1.8" or "USM" means. Is there a guide around describing what all these mean?

Does the 50mm mean it's not a zoom lens? I'm still slightly confused about the mm numbers and what they mean for the shot.

--goldFISH_no641, respek'

[LouDawg]

My best suggestion for you is to browse the dictionary at http://photonotes.org. Try searching for "focal length," zoom lenses, aperture, etc. It will give you a better explaination than I could, plus it's all there.

[tim]

I'd suggest you do a basic photography course in your area, they're really helpful.

[goldstrikn]

My best suggestion for you is to browse the dictionary at http://photonotes.org. Try searching for "focal length," zoom lenses, aperture, etc. It will give you a better explaination than I could, plus it's all there.

That's what I need it, it is very informative. Thank you.

[mbze430]

sometimes if you add and subtract those numbers, you get the price of your lens.....

[Eric DeCastro]

sometimes if you add and subtract those numbers, you get the price of your lens.....

haha.

it's fairly simple, after awhile it becomes second nature.

rule of thumb, i try and get constant f stops but then that drives the price of the lens up.

[Andy_T]

It's pretty easy ... the more letters, the better the lens has to be :lol:

Just kidding, but it works with the letter 'L' if it is added to the name of your lens.

Best regards,
Andy