Digital SLR: How to buy the best digital SLR Digital SLR lenses explained

Digital SLRs typically come with a single kit lens. Twin kit lenses are sometimes also available, and the camera can often be bought 'body only', which could be a good option if you're upgrading your camera and already have a few compatible lenses.

There are a number of different lenses available and the cost and quality can vary wildly.

We spoke to David Parry from Canon about digital SLR lenses and how they can help your photography.

What are the benefits of using a DSLR camera over a point-and-shoot digital compact camera?

Find out more about digital SLR sensors, and how this can affect depth-of-field in your shots.

What types of lenses are there available for DSLRs?

Most digital SLRs are bought with kit lenses, but a collection of lenses gives you a number of benefits. In this clip you can learn more about different types of DSLR lenses, including fixed and zoom lenses, and wide-angle lenses.

Why do prices of lenses vary so wildly?

Lenses can cost tens of thousands of pounds. Discover how factors, including the motor and the quality of the optics, boost the price tag - and why many professional lenses that you see at sporting events are white.

What lens would you recommend a DSLR user buy as a second lens?

When you're ready to buy a second lens for your digital SLR, you need to think carefully about what you're going to use your camera for. And as it can be such a big purchase, try the lens out first if you can, and swap lenses with fellow photographers.

What other DSLR lenses are available?

Learn about what a macro, tilt-shift or a fisheye lens might do for your photography.

Tips on caring for DSLR lenses

Lenses are expensive and complex pieces of equipment - so good care for them is essential. Listen to tips on how to change and clean your digital SLR lens.

Tips on using a DSLR – particularly with a powerful zoom lens

Some lenses can be heavy and unbalance the camera. A tripod or monopod can help overcome this, but what other ways are there of reducing the effect of camera shake in your pictures beyond image stabilisation?

What accessories can be bought for your lenses?

Hoods and filters can be added to your photography bag, but what do they do? Find out more about reducing flare on your lens, and the benefits of UV, sky-light and polarising filters.

Digital SLR reviews

If you're shopping for a digital SLR, then you want to be sure that you buy the best. To find out which models have been awarded a Which? Best Buy, check out our in-depth, lab-based digital SLR reviews.