SLR camera lenses shape the quality and style of your photos. Knowing lens basics helps you choose the right lens for each shot.
SLR lenses come in many types and sizes, each serving a unique purpose. For example, wide-angle lenses capture broad scenes, while telephoto lenses zoom in on distant subjects. A kit like the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with EF18-55mm and EF75-300mm covers both wide and zoom needs.
Prime lenses, such as the Canon EF 50mm f/1. 8 STM, offer sharp images and work well in low light. Manual focus lenses like the EF/EF-S 420-800mm zoom give control for precise shots. Understanding these lens basics helps you pick lenses that fit your style and camera, improving your photography experience.
Canon Eos Rebel T7 Dslr Camera

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera|2 Lens Kit is ideal for photography enthusiasts, beginners, and hobbyists looking to upgrade from smartphone photography to a versatile and user-friendly DSLR. This kit is perfect for those who want to capture high-quality images and explore various photography styles, thanks to its included EF18-55mm and EF 75-300mm lenses. Whether you’re interested in portrait, landscape, or wildlife photography, this camera kit offers a comprehensive setup to get started.
Pros:
- Includes two versatile lenses for wide-angle and telephoto shots
- High-quality 24.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor for sharp images
- Easy-to-use interface suitable for beginners
- Compact and lightweight design for portability
- Full HD 1080p video recording capability
Cons:
- No 4K video recording option
- Limited touchscreen functionality
- Basic autofocus system compared to higher-end models
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 features a powerful 24.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers stunning image quality with excellent detail and color accuracy. Paired with the included EF18-55mm lens, users can capture everyday scenes and portraits with sharp clarity. The additional EF 75-300mm telephoto lens expands creative possibilities, allowing photographers to zoom in on distant subjects like wildlife or sports events without sacrificing image quality. This combination makes the kit highly versatile for various shooting scenarios.
Designed with beginners in mind, the camera provides an intuitive menu system and helpful guided modes to simplify learning photography basics. Its compact and lightweight body ensures comfort during long shooting sessions or travel. Furthermore, the Full HD 1080p video recording feature allows users to capture memorable moments in high definition, making it an excellent choice for those interested in both photography and videography. Overall, this kit balances quality, ease of use, and value, making it a strong contender for anyone entering the DSLR world.
Amazon Basics Large Dslr Gadget Bag

The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag is ideal for photographers and videographers who need a reliable and spacious storage solution for their DSLR cameras and accessories. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this bag is designed to keep your valuable equipment organized and protected during travel or daily use.
Pros:
- Spacious interior with customizable compartments for various camera gear
- Durable black exterior with a stylish grey interior that resists dirt
- Lightweight design at just 1.56 pounds for easy portability
- Compact dimensions (Height: 4.65 inches, Width: 3.11 inches, Length: 15 inches) suitable for travel
- Reliable brand quality from Amazon Basics ensuring value and durability
Cons:
- Limited water resistance, requiring additional protection in heavy rain
- May not fit larger DSLR models with extensive lenses or accessories
- The design focuses more on function than fashion, which may not appeal to all users
The Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag features a thoughtfully designed interior with adjustable dividers, allowing users to customize the layout to fit their specific camera body, lenses, batteries, and memory cards. This modular design helps prevent damage by keeping gear securely separated, making it easier to access equipment quickly during shoots. The bag’s lightweight yet sturdy construction ensures that carrying your DSLR and accessories remains comfortable throughout the day.
Additionally, the bag’s sleek black exterior paired with a grey interior not only looks professional but also helps keep the contents clean and visible. Its compact size makes it perfect for photographers on the go, whether traveling to a shoot location or simply commuting between sessions. Overall, the Amazon Basics Large DSLR Gadget Bag offers an excellent balance of protection, organization, and portability for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Canon Ef 75-300mm F/4-5.6 Iii Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens is ideal for photography enthusiasts and amateur photographers looking to expand their creative possibilities with a versatile telephoto zoom lens. This lens is perfect for users who own Canon SLR cameras and want to capture distant subjects such as wildlife, sports events, or portraits with a shallow depth of field without breaking the bank. Its compact and lightweight design makes it suitable for travelers and hobbyists seeking portability without sacrificing zoom capabilities.
Pros:
- Affordable price point for a telephoto zoom lens from a trusted brand
- Lightweight and compact design enhances portability and ease of use
- Wide zoom range from 75mm to 300mm offers great versatility
- Compatible with a broad range of Canon SLR cameras, making it accessible
- Simple operation ideal for beginners and hobbyists
Cons:
- Variable aperture of f/4-5.6 may limit low-light performance
- Lacks image stabilization, which can affect handheld shooting quality
- Build quality is mostly plastic, which may impact durability over time
The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens features a broad focal length range that allows photographers to zoom in closely on distant subjects without needing to change lenses frequently. This flexibility benefits users who enjoy shooting wildlife or sports, as it helps capture detailed images from afar. The lens’s lightweight construction, weighing just over one pound, ensures that it is easy to carry during extended photo sessions or travel adventures. Its compact dimensions also make it convenient to store in camera bags without adding bulk.
Although the lens has a variable aperture of f/4-5.6, which is less ideal for low-light conditions, it still provides decent performance in well-lit environments. The straightforward design and compatibility with Canon SLR cameras allow beginners to quickly get accustomed to telephoto zoom photography. While it lacks advanced features such as image stabilization, the Canon EF 75-300mm III remains a practical and budget-friendly option for users wanting to explore telephoto photography without investing in professional-grade equipment.
Canon Ef-s 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Ii Slr Lens

The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is II SLR Lens White Box is ideal for beginner photographers and hobbyists looking for a versatile and affordable lens to start their journey in photography. This lens is perfect for those who own Canon DSLR cameras and want a lightweight, compact zoom lens for everyday shooting, including landscapes, portraits, and casual snapshots.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and handle
- Versatile focal length range from 18mm wide-angle to 55mm short telephoto
- Compatible with Canon APS-C sensor cameras
- Affordable price point for entry-level photographers
- Produces sharp images with good color reproduction
Cons:
- Variable aperture (f/3.5-5.6) limits low-light performance
- No image stabilization feature
- Build quality is mostly plastic, which may affect durability
The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is II lens features a focal length range that covers wide-angle to short telephoto perspectives, making it highly versatile for various photography styles. Whether capturing expansive landscapes or detailed close-ups, this lens adapts well, allowing users to experiment with different compositions without changing lenses frequently. Its compact size and lightweight build enhance portability, making it an excellent companion for travel and everyday use.
While the lens has a variable aperture, it still delivers sharp and vibrant images in well-lit conditions. The lens’s compatibility with Canon’s APS-C DSLR cameras ensures users can fully utilize the sensor’s capabilities for high-quality photographs. Although it lacks image stabilization, the lens remains a reliable and budget-friendly option for those starting with SLR photography, offering a solid balance between performance and affordability.
Canon Ef 50mm Lens

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is ideal for photography enthusiasts and professionals looking for a high-quality, affordable prime lens. It is perfect for portrait, street, and low-light photography, making it an excellent choice for those who want to enhance their camera kit with a versatile and lightweight lens.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Wide f/1.8 aperture allows excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur
- Stepping Motor (STM) technology ensures smooth and quiet autofocus, ideal for video recording
- Affordable price point without compromising image quality
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLR cameras
Cons:
- No weather sealing, which limits use in harsh conditions
- Plastic build may feel less durable compared to higher-end lenses
- Limited zoom capability as a fixed 50mm prime lens
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens features a large maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing photographers to capture sharp images even in low-light environments. This wide aperture also creates a pleasing shallow depth of field, making subjects stand out against beautifully blurred backgrounds. The compact and lightweight design enhances portability, enabling users to carry the lens comfortably during long shoots or travel.
Equipped with Canon’s advanced Stepping Motor (STM) technology, this lens delivers smooth and quiet autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for video recording and capturing candid moments without distracting noise. Additionally, its compatibility with most Canon DSLR cameras ensures flexibility and ease of use, making it an excellent addition for photographers aiming to improve their image quality without a hefty investment.
Ef/ef-s 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens

The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens (MF) with T-Mount for Canon EOS DSLR cameras is ideal for photography enthusiasts and professionals who require an extended zoom range for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects. This lens is perfect for users of Canon models such as the Rebel T8i, T7i, 90D, 5D Mark IV, and 7D II, who prefer manual focus control and want to capture sharp images at long distances without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Extremely long zoom range of 420-800mm for capturing distant subjects
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS cameras with EF/EF-S mounts
- Lightweight design at approximately 1.76 pounds, making it easier to handle
- Durable black finish ensuring professional aesthetic and protection
- Includes T-Mount adapter for versatile camera compatibility
Cons:
- Manual focus only, which may not be suitable for fast-moving subjects
- Maximum aperture of F8.3 limits low-light performance
- Relatively large size may require a tripod for stable shooting
The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens offers an impressive zoom range that allows photographers to get closer to faraway subjects without disturbing them. This feature is especially beneficial for wildlife and sports photography where getting physically close is challenging. Its manual focus mechanism provides precise control over focusing, which can result in sharper images when used skillfully.
Designed with portability in mind, this lens weighs just under two pounds and measures 9.45 inches in length, making it manageable for handheld use during outdoor shoots. The included T-Mount adapter increases its versatility, allowing it to be used with various Canon EOS models listed in the product specifications. While the fixed aperture of F8.3 restricts its performance in darker environments, it performs well under bright conditions, delivering clear and detailed shots for creative photographers.
Benoison Telephoto Lens For Nikon

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon is ideal for photography enthusiasts and professionals who own Nikon DSLR cameras and seek to capture distant subjects with clarity. If you use models like the D3500, D850, D7500, D5600, or similar, and prefer manual focus control for precise adjustments, this lens is designed to enhance your telephoto shooting experience.
Pros:
- Wide Zoom Range: 420-800mm focal length allows capturing distant subjects effectively.
- Compatibility: Works with a broad range of Nikon DSLR cameras, including popular models.
- Manual Focus Control: Offers precise focusing for detailed shots and creative control.
- Compact Size: Lightweight and portable with dimensions suitable for easy handling.
- Durable Build: Solid black design with reliable construction for outdoor use.
Cons:
- No Autofocus: Manual focusing may require practice and patience.
- Limited Aperture Control: May not perform well in low light conditions without additional support.
- Fixed Zoom Speed: Zooming is manual and might be slower compared to electronic zoom lenses.
The BENOISON Telephoto Lens boasts an impressive zoom range from 420mm to 800mm, making it perfect for capturing wildlife, sports, and distant landscapes. Its manual focus system empowers photographers to fine-tune focus precisely, which is especially useful when shooting static or slow-moving subjects. Thanks to its compatibility with various Nikon DSLR models, users can integrate this lens seamlessly into their existing gear setup.
Despite lacking autofocus, the lens’s lightweight and compact design make it a practical choice for photographers on the go. The robust construction ensures durability during outdoor shoots. While it requires manual adjustments, this feature allows for greater creative control, enabling users to capture sharp and detailed images even at extreme zoom levels.
Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-telephoto Portrait Lens

The Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens is ideal for photographers who own a Canon EOS EF Mount Digital SLR Camera, such as the 5D Mark IV or 6D Mark II, and are looking for an affordable yet high-quality lens specifically designed for stunning portrait photography. This lens is perfect for enthusiasts and professionals who want sharp, vibrant images with beautiful background blur without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Fast F1.8 aperture allows excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for creamy bokeh.
- Auto focus capability ensures quick and accurate focusing, ideal for capturing sharp portraits.
- Compact and lightweight design (approximately 0.94 pounds), making it easy to carry and handle during long shooting sessions.
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS EF mount cameras, providing versatility and seamless integration.
- Durable build quality with a sleek black finish, enhancing both aesthetics and longevity.
Cons:
- No image stabilization feature, which may require higher shutter speeds in low light to avoid blur.
- Limited to medium-telephoto focal length, which might not be versatile enough for all photography styles.
- Some users may find the focusing speed slightly slower compared to high-end Canon lenses.
The Meike 85mm F1.8 lens features a bright F1.8 aperture that excels in creating beautiful portraits with smooth background blur, allowing subjects to stand out sharply against soft, creamy backgrounds. Its medium-telephoto focal length is ideal for framing portraits without distortion, giving natural perspective and flattering proportions. The lens is engineered to work seamlessly with Canon EOS EF mount cameras, ensuring that autofocus and exposure metering work accurately for consistent results.
Additionally, the compact size and lightweight construction make this lens highly portable, which benefits photographers who often shoot on location or during events. While it lacks image stabilization, the combination of its wide aperture and autofocus system allows users to capture crisp images even in dim conditions. Overall, this lens offers excellent value for portrait photographers seeking professional-quality results without investing in premium-priced glass.
Ef/ef-s 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens (mf) For Canon Eos

The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens (MF) is ideal for photography enthusiasts and professionals who use Canon EOS DSLR cameras such as the Rebel T8i, T7i, 90D, 5D Mark IV, and more. This lens is perfect for those seeking an affordable manual focus telephoto zoom lens to capture distant subjects like wildlife, sports, and outdoor events with enhanced reach and detail.
Pros:
- Extremely long 420-800mm focal range for capturing distant subjects
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS DSLR cameras
- Lightweight and compact design with only 2.44 inches in height and width
- Durable black finish by ZLY Technology ensuring longevity
- Manual focus control allows for precise focusing in challenging shooting scenarios
Cons:
- Manual focus only, which may be challenging for fast-moving subjects
- Maximum aperture of F8.3 limits performance in low-light conditions
- Long focal length may require a tripod to avoid camera shake
The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens offers an impressive zoom range from 420mm up to 800mm, enabling photographers to get extremely close to subjects that are far away. This makes it ideal for wildlife and sports photography where distance is a critical factor. The lens’s manual focus mechanism provides the user with precise control, allowing for sharp images even when autofocus might struggle in complex lighting or obstructed views.
Constructed with a lightweight and compact form factor, this lens is easy to carry and handle during long shooting sessions. Its compatibility with a broad range of Canon EOS cameras, including popular models like the Rebel series and professional-grade bodies, makes it a versatile choice for many users. While the fixed aperture of F8.3 means it performs best in bright conditions, the optical design ensures good image quality throughout the zoom range, making it a valuable addition to any Canon DSLR kit for telephoto photography.
Jintu 420-800mm F/8.3 Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens

The JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens with T-Mount compatibility is ideal for photography enthusiasts and professionals who own a Canon EOS Rebel or other compatible SLR cameras. This lens is perfect for those who want to explore long-distance photography such as wildlife, sports, or astrophotography with a budget-friendly, manual zoom lens that offers impressive focal range versatility.
Pros:
- Extensive 420-800mm telephoto zoom range for capturing distant subjects clearly.
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS Rebel models and other Canon SLR cameras.
- Lightweight and compact design with dimensions of 2.6 x 2.6 x 11.4 inches for easy portability.
- Manual focus control allowing precise adjustments for sharper images.
- Durable build with a sleek black finish suitable for various shooting environments.
Cons:
- Manual zoom and focus may require more time and skill compared to autofocus lenses.
- Maximum aperture of f/8.3 limits performance in low-light conditions.
- May not be ideal for fast-moving subjects due to manual operation.
The JINTU 420-800mm telephoto zoom lens offers photographers an impressive focal length range that brings distant subjects into clear view. Its manual zoom functionality provides flexibility for creative framing and composition, making it an excellent choice for users looking to capture detailed shots from afar. The lens’s compatibility with numerous Canon EOS Rebel cameras ensures seamless integration and reliable performance across different models.
Additionally, the lens’s compact and lightweight design enhances portability, allowing photographers to carry it comfortably during outdoor shoots. Though it requires manual focus, this feature gives users greater control over their images, which is particularly beneficial in controlled shooting scenarios. Overall, the JINTU 420-800mm f/8.3 lens is a valuable addition for those seeking an affordable telephoto zoom lens with versatile capabilities and solid build quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Lenses Come With The Canon Eos Rebel T7 Kit?
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 kit includes two lenses: the EF 18-55mm and the EF 75-300mm. These cover wide-angle to telephoto shots, perfect for beginners learning versatile photography styles.
How Does The Canon Ef 50mm F/1.8 Stm Lens Improve Photos?
The EF 50mm f/1. 8 STM lens offers sharp images with beautiful background blur. Its wide aperture suits low light and portrait photography, enhancing image quality and creativity.
Are Manual Focus Lenses Compatible With Canon Dslr Cameras?
Yes, manual focus lenses like the EF/EF-S 420-800mm work with Canon DSLR cameras. They offer precise control but require manual focusing skills for best results.
What Is The Benefit Of The Amazon Basics Dslr Gadget Bag?
The Amazon Basics DSLR gadget bag offers spacious, padded compartments to protect your camera and lenses. It’s lightweight, durable, and ideal for organizing gear safely on the go.
Which Lens Is Best For Portrait Photography With Canon Dslrs?
The Meike 85mm F1. 8 lens is excellent for portraits. Its medium telephoto focal length and wide aperture create sharp, flattering images with creamy background blur.
Can Nikon Telephoto Lenses Be Used On Canon Cameras?
Nikon telephoto lenses like BENOISON models are designed for Nikon DSLRs and won’t fit Canon cameras without adapters. Compatibility depends on mount type and camera model.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of SLR camera lenses helps you choose the right lens for your photography needs. Different lenses serve different purposes, such as wide-angle for landscapes or telephoto for distant subjects. Knowing lens types and features improves your photos and makes shooting easier.
For example, the Canon EF 50mm f/1. 8 lens is great for portraits, while the 75-300mm lens captures faraway objects clearly. Using the right lens bag, like the Amazon Basics large DSLR gadget bag, protects your gear. Whether you have a Canon EOS Rebel T7 or a Nikon D3500, picking compatible lenses matters.
Manual focus lenses like the 420-800mm zoom lens offer control but require patience. Autofocus lenses, such as the Meike 85mm F1. 8, speed up shooting. With this knowledge, you can enjoy better pictures and a smoother photography experience. Keep exploring lenses, and your camera skills will grow step by step.