Everything you need to know about telephoto lenses

Are you an aspiring, or even a professional photographer? Chances are, while buying your camera, you’d have also been presented with the option to buy a prime or a telephoto lens. Ever wondered just what the latter is though? And, why you may need one? If yes, read on. 

What a telephoto lens is and what it can do for you

A telephoto lens is built for taking pictures of distant objects. In contrast to normal lenses, telephoto lenses have a longer focal length, which enables them to enlarge far-off objects with clarity. When going physically closer to the subject is not favourable, telephoto lenses are especially useful.

ALSO READ: What are the types of lenses every photographer must have? 

They are primarily used for astrophotography, wildlife photography, and shooting sporting events. Photographers can focus on and capture far-off subjects with telephoto lenses, in the form of sharp, high-resolution images.

Benefits of using a telephoto lens

The following are some of the benefits of using a telephoto lens.

1. Magnification and reach

The ability to photograph distant subjects with telephoto lenses makes them perfect for photographing animals, sports, and events. They make it possible to get up close and personal with subjects such as wildlife, without intruding on their space or altering their behaviour.

2. Background compression

To isolate the subject and make it stand out, telephoto lenses can provide with beautiful, blurred backgrounds. 

3. Portraiture

Telephoto lenses can also provide images with extreme detail from a distance and are therefore often used for portrait photography. 

4. Reduced distortion

Compared to wide-angle lenses, telephoto lenses exhibit less distortion, making them ideal for shooting products and architectural subjects.

How to choose a telephoto lens

Here are some factors to keep in mind when purchasing a telephoto lens.

1. Focal length considerations

Select the focal length you need. Some super-telephoto lenses go way beyond the maximum focal length of 300mm. However, typical telephoto lenses have focal lengths ranging between 70 and 300mm. To make the right choice, consider the distances you plan on shooting subjects from.

2. Lens weight and size 

Think of the lens’ weight and size. Your mobility becomes restricted when using larger telephoto lenses since they are heavy.

3. Accessories to purchase with your lens

While purchasing a telephoto lens, consider investing in other accessories for it, such as filters, lens hoods, and more, to get a little something out of your investment. 

4. Always try them before purchasing 

If possible, try to borrow or rent a telephoto lens before actually purchasing one. In doing so, you can find out whether it fits your use cases or not.

We hope this helps!