Expert: John Oliverio - 9/20/2008

Question
IF i set the minimum aperture of the lens at the shortest mm
won't it then stay the same throughout the zoom range?
Wouldn't this be better (easier) for learning instead of the camera changing ap and shutter speed with each different zoomed focal length?

Answer
Harold,

I think you may misunderstand some things.

The aperture on all amateur zoom lenses (aperture is marked in f.stops, not mm) will change when you zoom out if you are on a very fast aperture like f.4.  It's how the lens is made and why it was relatively inexpensive.  If you notice on your lens, it is probably marked something like this: f4-5.6. That means it has a variable aperture.  Pro lenses will only have one number.... like f2.8.

If you want to learn properly, you should have the camera set on manual and take control of aperture and shutter speed.

If you decide to follow up with another question, please tell me what camera and lens you have.

John