Question 1

Which camera lens mount do I need?

Accepted Answer

You need the mount that matches your camera body — there is no universal standard. Canon mirrorless cameras use RF mount; Sony mirrorless uses E mount; Nikon mirrorless uses Z mount. If you're shooting on an older DSLR, Canon uses EF and Nikon uses F mount. Check your camera's manual or the manufacturer's website if you're unsure. Using the wrong mount without a compatible adapter will mean the lens physically won't attach, or autofocus won't function correctly.

Question 2

Is a 50mm prime lens worth buying if I already have a kit zoom?

Accepted Answer

Yes — almost always. A 50mm prime at f/1.8 will outperform a kit zoom optically, produce far better low-light results, and cost less than most zooms. The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is one of the most recommended first upgrades for Canon RF shooters precisely because the image quality jump over a kit lens is immediately visible. The trade-off is that you'll need to physically move rather than zoom, which changes how you shoot — most photographers find this a positive discipline.

Question 3

What does 'weather sealing' actually mean on a camera lens?

Accepted Answer

Weather sealing means the lens has rubber gaskets and internal seals that resist dust and moisture ingress — but it does not mean the lens is waterproof. A weather-sealed lens (typically found on Canon L-series, Sigma Art, and Nikon Z S-line optics) can handle light rain and dusty environments without damage, provided the camera body is also sealed. Unsealed lenses used in wet conditions risk internal fogging and electrical damage. If you shoot outdoors regularly, weather sealing is worth paying for.

Question 4

Are third-party lenses like Sigma and Tamron as good as Canon or Nikon's own glass?

Accepted Answer

For most photography, yes — the gap has largely closed. Sigma Art primes and Tamron's constant-aperture zooms regularly match or exceed first-party sharpness in independent tests from Which? and TechRadar. The area where Canon and Nikon still hold an edge is autofocus tracking speed and reliability on fast-moving subjects, which matters for sports and wildlife. For portraits, landscapes, street, and video, a Sigma or Tamron lens at a lower price point is a genuinely smart choice.

Question 5

What focal length should I buy for wildlife photography?

Accepted Answer

For wildlife, you need at least 300mm of reach — ideally 400mm or more. The Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM is a practical and relatively affordable starting point for RF-mount shooters. The variable aperture (f/8 at 400mm) means you'll need good light or higher ISO settings, but the reach and image stabilisation make it a capable wildlife lens. If budget allows, a 500mm or 600mm prime will deliver better results for distant or fast-moving subjects, but the price and weight increase significantly.

Question 6

Should I avoid buying very cheap lenses from unknown brands?

Accepted Answer

Treat sub-319 £ lenses from unrecognised brands with caution. The main risks are inconsistent optical quality (soft corners, heavy chromatic aberration), unreliable autofocus, and no manufacturer support if something goes wrong. TTArtisan and 7Artisans are the exception — these manual-focus brands have built a genuine reputation for quality at low prices and are well-reviewed by the photography community. For autofocus lenses, stick to established names: Samyang, Sigma, Tamron, Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, or Fujifilm.

Question 7

In 2026, is it still worth buying EF or F-mount lenses for older DSLRs?

Accepted Answer

It depends on whether you plan to stay on a DSLR long-term. Canon EF and Nikon F lenses retain strong second-hand value and optical quality hasn't changed — but the DSLR ecosystem is winding down, with both Canon and Nikon focusing development on mirrorless. If you're likely to upgrade to a mirrorless body within the next few years, investing heavily in EF or F-mount glass is less sensible unless you plan to use an adapter. Native RF or Z-mount lenses are the more future-proof choice.

Camera Lenses Price Comparison

Canon EF 70-200 mm F/2.8L IS III USM Camera Lenses, Black/White

Canon Ultra-Wide-Angle RF 15-35 mm F2.8L IS USM Zoom Camera Lenses, Black

Camera Lenses Price Comparison

Camera Lenses price comparison UK

Canon EF 70-200 mm F/2.8L IS III USM Camera Lenses, Black/White

Canon Ultra-Wide-Angle RF 15-35 mm F2.8L IS USM Zoom Camera Lenses, Black