• A zoom lens may provide a lower resolution image when compared to a prime lens.cameraman(focus point on the camcorder) image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com
  
  The advent of zoom lenses provided filmmakers and photographers alike with a cost saving method of producing differently composed shots. Your zoom lens is a versatile piece of equipment with significant advantages, but the drawbacks of the lens may affect the way in which you use the lens in the future. Understanding the drawbacks of your Digicam zoom lens will make you a better photographer.
  
  

Loss of Available Light

• Zoom lenses on Digicams restrict the amount of available light to the sensor located on the camera's internal hardware. To reduce weight and maintain affordability, Digicams use lenses with higher minimum apertures than prime lenses, which equates to decreased low-light capacity. Additionally, when the lens is zoomed to its maximum magnification, the amount of light decreases further. You may not notice the difference in aperture capabilities if you primarily use your Digicam in an outdoor capacity. However, if you use your camera in a studio or indoor setting, you may need to set-up additional lighting to produce a reasonable image.
  
  

Image Resolution Restrictions

• Zoom lenses are manufactured to be extremely versatile and cost effective when compared to owning multiple prime lenses. This affordability often comes with the drawback of using lower quality glass within the lens. The zoom lens on your Digicam, when used at its widest point, may compromise the resolution of your image. Imperfections in the glass of the lens, as well as the zoom elements within the lens, will sacrifice the available visual information for your camera's internal sensor. Subjects and objects may appear "blurry" or "foggy" in certain instances of the camera's use.
  
  

Lens Creep During Use

• Your Digicam can suffer from the effects of "lens creep" with repeated heavy use, or from the wear of age. The lens of your Digicam "creeps" when it extends or shortens without input from you. "Lens creep" can occur when the camera is pointed at a downward angle, bumped, or adjusted to meet specific settings. The lengthening or shortening of your lens can ruin the composition of your shot and possibly change the focus of the subject.