It’s important to understand the two types of zoom lenses because they’re vastly different from each other.
In the battle of optical zoom vs. digital zoom, only oneoptical zoomis consistently useful for photographers.
Continue reading to find more information that can help you understand camera zoom lenses better.
Vasiliki Varvaki / E+ / Getty Images
Vasiliki Varvaki / E+ / Getty Images
What Is Optical Zoom?
Optical zoom measures the actual increase in thefocal lengthof the lens.
Focal length is the distance between the center of the lens and the image sensor.
With most digital cameras, the zoom lens moves outward when in use, extending from the camera body.
Some digital cameras, however, create the zoom while adjusting the image size within thecamera body.
What Is Digital Zoom?
The usefulness of digital zoom is limited to certain circumstances.
This process requires magnifying or removing individual pixels, which can cause image quality degradation.
A larger number signifies a stronger magnification capability.
Keep in mind that not every camera’s “10X” optical zoom measurement is the same.
Manufacturers measure the optical zoom from one extreme of the lens' capabilities to the other.
Interchangeable Lenses
Digital cameras aimed at beginners and intermediate users typically only offer a built-in lens.
Most digital SLR (DSLR) cameras, however, can make use of interchangeable lenses.
Most DSLR lenses will not include an “X” number for a zoom measurement.
You might have to do a little searching to find the optical zoom measurement of a particular model.
In the case of digital camera zoom lenses, it pays to read the fine print.
Understand the zoom lens, and you’ll make the most of your digital camera purchase.
