So what’s the difference between a cheap lens and an expensive lens?
Well, in this video, I have a cheap lens, a Yongnuo 35mm f/2.0, that lists for about $100, while on the other hand, I have this Canon 35mm f/1.4, which lists for around $2,000. When both are shot at f/2.0, the difference is not much, but if you look deeper, the quality is better with the Canon 35mm f/1.4.
The Yongnuo 35mm f/2.0 is made of plastic; if you dropped it, it would probably break. While the Canon 35mm f/1.4 is somewhat plastic, it’s weather sealed. It will handle the wear and tear better and be in your kit for extended periods. Another aspect is the autofocus; the motors for the autofocus on the Yongnuo lens are going to be loud, and they’re going to be slow. Meanwhile, you’ll get a more accurate autofocus on the Canon lens.
In the end, you get what you pay for. But if you could see both images from the two lenses, they’re not that much different! You don’t need a Canon 35mm f/1.4 to create good photos, and you could still produce it with a Yongnuo 35mm f/2.0 or other lenses in the same price range. You have to be a little more careful about how you shoot it and try not to drop it.
