When it comes to 35mm cameras, what's the difference between...?

Question

"Fixed Focus" and "Auto Focus" lenses? How do the different type of lenses affect the final photograph?

I'm a bit thick, so please keep your explanations simple! ;o]

Thanks.

Answer 1

In auto focus the camera will automatically focus on the area you are shooting, usually the area in the centre of the viewfinder. In fixed focus you usually have a lens which will give sharp results from fairly close to infinity, which means the whole of the picture will be in focus. Auto focus is usually better as areas you don't want to concentrate on are often out of focus and blurred thus not intruding in the picture. Professional photographers often prefer manual focus cameras as they can choose the are in focus themselves, but the auto focus ones are better for the point and click people.

Answer 2

A Fixed focus lens are set to be focused at a set distance. In 35 mm cameras they are really a lens used for specific situations. Auto Focus lenses work over a wide range of distances and automatically focus on the object in the frame. If you are only starting out with a 35mm I'd suggest you stick to the auto focus to start with. You'll get to know what other lens you want with experience. The link below has some good easy to understand info about these 2 and other related terms.

Answer 3

Fixed focus lense are usually used on cheaper 35mm point and shoot cameras. You just put in the film and click away. Since most of these cameras are used for quick snaps the focus zone of the lens is set up for general use.

Better quality point and shooters have an auto focus system that uses infrared light reflected back of the subject to adjust the focus to the subject - auto focus - get it.

If you are asking about the difference between manual focus lenses and auto focus lenses for 35mm SLR's that a very different answer.

Answer 4

There isn't much difference between the two. Fixed focus lenses are used on non SLR cameras and means if it looks focused in the viewfinder of a non-SLR camera, it will be in focus on the picture

Auto focus is used on SLR camera's, a computer chip determines the exact point of focus so you don't have to spend time twisting the SLR lense until the picture is in focus.

Answer 5

A "Fixed Focus" lens is usually a cheaper lens. All of the one use & disposable cameras sold in stores are fixed focus lenes. The lenes are not adjustable, they are set at a set focus to be used outdoors, or indoors with flash. "Auto Focus" are better lenes, where the focus point can be adjusted automatically, and can be used indoors without flash.

Answer 6

if you are a bit thick stick to auto focus!