Fixed focal length

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50 mm fixed focal length for a 35mm SLR camera

Fixed focal length is the name in technical jargon for a lens whose focal length is fixed due to the design and cannot be changed as with a zoom lens . In comparison to the zoom lens, a fixed focal length is usually easier and cheaper to develop and produce. Fixed focal lengths usually have a better resolution , better imaging performance and a higher speed .

In addition to photography , fixed focal lengths are also used in video technology .

There is always a discussion among photographers as to whether a fixed focal length or a zoom lens is the better choice. In professional photography, however, the fixed focal length has established itself for many areas of application. Due to the usually higher light intensity and because of the better image quality, it meets professional demands on the result better than zoom lenses, whose strength lies particularly in their flexibility.

Areas of application and suitability

Fixed focal lengths are mainly used when, depending on the situation, specific and characteristic image effects of the image sections are to be achieved. Due to their larger possible aperture , fixed focal lengths with high light intensity can produce a smaller depth of field in the image. For example, subjects can be better from the background indemnify (targeted use of focus and blur). Even in difficult lighting conditions, for example at events such as concerts, church weddings or sporting events, photographers often work with high-speed prime lenses (see also “ Available Light ”). Due to the puristic nature of these lenses, fixed focal lengths are also said to expand the photographic view in order to better assess motifs in advance and to be able to make settings adapted to the environment (“photographic eye”). Because of these properties, lenses with fixed focal lengths are still often used by photographers depending on the situation. The disadvantage of fixed focal lengths is their fixed angle of view, which is not suitable in every situation and not for every subject. Photographers therefore usually use several lenses of different classes with different properties and designs in their work.

Web links

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ DSLR lenses (part 2): fixed focal lengths. February 3, 2011, accessed August 19, 2011 .