Lens News

Professional photographer Darren Miles knows how to start an argument. And because it involves one of our favorite topics – choosing the right lens for your camera – we thought we’d share it with you.

“If you ever want to start a controversy, tell a group of photographers that their really expensive, wide aperture lenses may not be worth it, “ Miles says in the below video.

A twelve-year pro who is based in southwest Florida and shoots portraits, weddings and family photos, Miles offers five reasons why you might want to choose an F/1.8 lens over an F/1.4 lens the next time you go shopping for camera gear.

When Miles first became a pro, he shot with Canon equipment, and he admits he was enticed by the company’s high-end L-series lenses. The problem? They were so expensive, particularly those with F/1.4 and wider apertures.

“Today’s camera bodies and F/1.8 lenses have improved rather dramatically over the last 12 years,” he notes. “I’m not telling you not to get those wide aperture lenses. I’m just giving you five reasons why you should consider getting the F/1.8 versions instead.”

Or, in other words, the ultimate decision is up to you. And, as he explains, your gear is not the most important thing you bring to photography: it’s your brain and your vision as a photographer.

Having said that, you can see his five reasons for suggesting an F/1.8 lens over an F/1.4, at the following points in the video:

Reason 5: 1:55

Reason 4: 2:44

Reason 3: 3:59

Reason 2: 5:29

Reason 1: 6:14

Then, at around the 7.11-minute mark, he gives you the downsides of f/1.8 lenses.

You can see more of Miles’ helpful photography videos on his YouTube channel. You should also check out our own video from photographer Jordan Matter where he gives you seven reasons why he thinks an 85mm f/1.8 lens is perfect for portraits.

Via Fstoppers