A zoom lens will give you more options than the standard lens your digital SLR comes with. It will give you greater focal flexibility and will allow you to photograph things like sports, animals and nature without having to get as close. Here are some of the main things to consider:

• Aperture. Choose a lens with a consistent aperture, so it doesn’t change as you zoom in and out.
• Price. Zoom lenses come in at lots of different price points, from relatively cheap to more expensive. Find one that is appropriate to you.
• Wide angle. A wide angle lens will give you the best results at all zoom lengths. If you can afford to, invest in a lens that gives you a wider angle.
• Portability. Large zoom lenses can be difficult to carry around and to keep with your camera. When choosing a lens, remember to take into account practicality.