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Interchangeable Lenses

By Kyle Schurman, About.com

Interchangeable lens

This Nikon lens provides wide-angle capabilities.

Nikon
Definition: Interchangeable lenses are pieces of equipment primarily found with high-end digital cameras, also called digital SLR cameras. With multiple interchangeable lenses, the photographer can achieve different photographic images. Some lenses provide strong zoom capabilities, for example, while others provide wide-angle capabilities.

An interchangeable lens rotates into place on the camera body, fitting tightly as if it were permanently attached. It usually can be removed by pressing a button and turning the lens in the opposite direction.

Certain models and brands of camera bodies require specific models of interchangeable lenses.

Also Known As: external lenses, DSLR lenses

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