VIDEO 101

The Lens

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Lesson Outline
Introduction
Zoom Lenses
Focal Length
Telephoto
Wide Angle
Aperture
Focus & Zoom
Depth of Field


Lens > Zoom lenses


While you probably already grasp the concept, play this simple zoom to make sure we are all on the same page.

Almost every video lens is a zoom lens. (Long ago "zoom" was a brand name, but over time it became a generic term. It's the same fate that "cellophane" and "kerosene" suffered. "Kleenex" and "Jello" aren't far away. And the Coca-Cola corporation has lawyers dedicated to making sure "Coke" doesn't slide into generic use. Because once it does, anyone could call their soft drink "Coke." Not good for Coca Cola stock.)

"Zoom" simply means that the lens can magnify the image a lot or a little--and can glide between those settings.

By contrast, a "fixed" lens cannot glide between different magnifications. Things that have a fixed lens: binoculars, disposable still cameras, your eyes.

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Michael Trinklein