In our previous article on getting better photos with the Nikon D3300, we mentioned that every photographer will eventually need to venture into the world of reflex lenses. Well... here we are! If you have concluded that the standard configuration on your SLR camera doesn't fully suit your current needs, then it's time to expand its potential with a new lens. Shall we explore some models?
Of course, it's understandable that some hearts may falter when the price factor enters the equation. For the beginner photographer, it's not easy to digest that a lens can cost more than the camera itself, but to be honest, things aren't much different in other fields. In the professional arena, this isn't even up for debate: Cameras, reflex lenses, and other accessories are work tools, and by extension, an investment for the future. Among enthusiasts, we see something similar every day in the hardware world. Want a more powerful graphics card? That demands around 300 euros on average. More RAM? 16 GB of DDR4 RAM costs at least 150 euros. Reflex lenses carry a significant cost and have very defined roles, but they are critical for your growth as a photographer, and they are definitely worth it. That said, let's begin:
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM
Entering the territory of Canon reflex lenses, we find the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM. Compact, very light, quieter thanks to its updated STM motor, and with a new focus ring that provides greater smoothness, this lens is an excellent addition for those shooting portraits, filming interviews, needing a better bokeh effect, and/or working in low-light environments.
Irix Firefly 15mm f/2.4
I admit it, Irix lenses are some of our favorites here, but that doesn't make them arrogant; instead, they respond with a price-performance ratio rarely seen. The Firefly model is slightly lighter than its older brother, though its general specifications remain intact: diaphragm aperture from f/2.4 to f/22, manual focus with lock function, 110-degree angle of view, and full compatibility with the Canon-Nikon-Pentax trident. It is available under the SKU numbers "0713043559,0713043590,0713043558".
Samyang 8mm f/3.5 CSII
The first item on our list is none other than one of the most popular fisheye lenses, the Samyang 8mm f/3.5 CSII. As its name indicates, the focal length is 8mm, the diaphragm aperture ranges from f/3.5 to f/22, and the angle of view reaches 180 degrees. If you like experimenting with your photographs, a fisheye is a must-have in your arsenal. Best part? Samyang offers versions compatible with Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and more.
Tamron 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6
The most versatile of the reflex lenses. It's very easy to blow our budget with a single telephoto lens that we might not be able to fully utilize at first, so an effective way to escape that trap is with this Tamron 70-300mm powerhouse. Nature, wildlife, sports, distant objects, and the occasional portrait are the lens's strongest points. If you can't afford to pay double for Canon lenses, this is your alternative.
Sigma 24-105mm f/4.0 DG OS HSM
Identified on more than one occasion as a hybrid between telephoto and wide-angle, this lens leaves behind any prejudice about mixes and combinations by offering one of the best experiences on the market. The integrated HSM motor delivers speed, precision, and low noise simultaneously without sacrificing portability. If you buy its dedicated dock, you can even update the firmware via USB.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 G
And what if you want a 50mm on a Nikon? Don't worry, you're covered with the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 G. This lens has been recommended time and again for daily and frequent use, with a certain emphasis on daytime photos, and those recommendations are justified. Some might say the market already offers superior options, but all workhorses like the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 G deserve consideration.
Samyang 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC
It was the best of the wide-angle reflex lenses until the arrival of the Irix. Almost everything a wide-angle has to offer, without falling into the extremes of a fisheye, with the characteristic manual operation we know from Samyang. That's how users describe the 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC, whose angle of view stretches up to 115.7 degrees. From interiors to panoramic views, its results are very good, at a more than reasonable price.
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
Clásico—that's the first word that comes to mind just by looking at this Canon lens. Above, we mentioned that the alternative to the Tamron telephoto was paying double. Well, what you'd buy is one of these. Robustness, versatility, good luminosity, excellent weight, STM motor for greater smoothness, and solid support. Worth every penny.
Tokina AT-X 11-16mm f/2.8 Pro AF DX II
A classic in reflex lenses. The lack of image stabilization might be seen as a drawback on this lens, but the rest of its specifications (f/2.8, 11-16mm, 104-degree angle) appropriately compensate for that absence. One of the best options for night photography or low-light work. The reviews of this lens speak for themselves, and its price has dropped significantly in recent years. With versions for Canon and Nikon.
Irix Blackstone 15mm f/2.4
And to close, the Irix Blackstone. Why this lens and not the Firefly? The keyword is robustness. The Firefly uses excellent-quality plastic, but if the area to photograph is a bit more extreme or the weather is relentless, you undoubtedly want the Blackstone, made with an aluminum-magnesium alloy, even though that carries a certain premium in its price. Don't forget that this family of reflex lenses is also available in 11mm and f/4.0. Good luck!
