RCP Photography School: Prime Lens

Hello to all who’ve joined me on day 16 of this 26 day challenge to learn about the basics of photography.

Have you enjoyed it so far? What have you taken away from it?

I am really passionate about helping other people, and lockdown has been severely difficult, even for me. With lockdown extended, I've lost track of how many people I've spoken to recently that need an outlet; something to feel good about themselves or to get creative. Photography has been a therapy for me during lockdown, and I really hope this basic but enjoyable course is just that for you!

If you’re doing this course, you probably already know a little bit about me but if you don’t, please check out who I am.

Today I’m going to talk about...

P for Prime Lens

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and is generally used for portrait photography. I, myself, have owned a 50mm f/1.8 lens and a 35mm f/1.4 lens, but it's about using what you have to the best of your ability and by growing your skills in photography.

Perfect for portraits

I use my prime lens A LOT for portrait photography and also product photography. With the larger aperture, it ensures me that the background will always be blurred, making the subject the key focus.

Radiant light

Because of the larger aperture in most prime lens, the light is super pretty. Using a larger aperture means your ISO will be as low as possible, which will result in a sharper image.

Intimate or close up

With prime lens, you don't have that ability to zoom. This requires you to get close up with your subject, and capture unique moments and memories.

Make you work hard

Again, zoom lenses have the ability to zoom for hundreds of metres. So, using a primes lens means you have to get creative, get close up, step back. You need to have a good eye when using a prime lens. My first prime lens was the 50mm f/1.8 and it learnt me to stand back when I was taking portraits but I also used it for parts of buildings when studying a foundation diploma in Art and Design. Now, I use my 35mm f/1.4 for portraits and product photography.

Expressive photography

Using a prime lens for creative work is a great idea. For a cheaper option, why not go for the 50mm f/1.8 and start photographing your kids in your home; photographing your pet or your favourite; or, doing self portraits to show others what mental health looks like to you.

I hope you enjoyed today's lesson on prime lens. Here are a few examples of my work using prime lenses.