DSLR Lenses

DSLR Lenses

There are a number of different DSLR lens mounts still in business. One of the biggest of course is Canon EF-mount, a hugely broad and varied ecosystem of lenses designed to fit Canon DSLRs. The range includes professional-grade Canon-made lenses that deliver ultra-sharp image quality in weatherproof bodies – look for the ‘L’ designation in the lens name, as this is how Canon denotes its top-end lenses. However, for the budget-conscious photographer or videographer there are plenty of affordable options, including third-party lenses made by independent manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron.

EF lenses can be used on any Canon DSLR, no matter whether it has a full-frame sensor or a smaller APS-C one. Some lenses are designated ‘EF-S’ – these are designed specifically to fit APS-C DSLRs, and won’t work with full-frame cameras. Double-check what type of sensor your camera is equipped with before buying if you’re unsure.

We also stock a number of PL lenses, another Canon system specifically for Cine cameras, designed to offer rock-solid stability for heavy cinema lenses. Bear in mind that EF and PL lenses are not natively cross-compatible – they are separate mounts with different specifications.

The other biggest DSLR lens system on the block is Nikon F, which includes lenses that fit Nikon DSLRs cameras. Again, this is a massive ecosystem of lenses spanning everything from professional tools to ultra-affordable beginner optics, with plenty of options from third-party manufacturers as well as Nikon itself. Nikon DSLRs also come in two sensor-size options – full-frame and APS-C. Nikon’s ‘FX’ lenses will fit both types, while its ‘DX’ lenses are for APS-C cameras only.

Remember also that both Canon EF and Nikon F lenses can be converted to work with their manufacturers’ respective mirrorless systems – Canon RF and Nikon Z – by means of dedicated adapters. This can be a great way for mirrorless shooters to expand their lens collections without spending too much, or to put old lenses to work for their newer gear.

Alternatively, you may be using the Pentax K-mount DSLR system, which enjoys a devoted community of photographers. Pentax lenses are particularly admired for their extensive weatherproofing, which makes them a great choice for outdoor shooters.

Other DSLR lens systems include Sony’s A-mount. Though the cameras aren’t technically DSLRs at all – Sony refers to them as ‘DSLTs’, referencing their DSLR-like build and handling. There are also older Sigma DSLRs, which use the Sigma SA-mount and offer a number of dedicated lenses.