Different Lenses

[greenvette]

So I am shooting with this camera and becoming more and more familar with it. I am also learning alot on this forum. Can somebody please explain to me the different lens sizes? I understand what a macro, fisheye, and wide-angle does, but if, for example, I want to purchase a macro, what size, type, or thread should I purchase? If you go onto BH Photo Video there are tons of lenses. I don't even know where to start just to browse.

Also, why do some people put 35mm lenses on? Does this give the camera even more of a film look?

[Rumpelgeist]

if, for example, I want to purchase a macro, what size, type, or thread should I purchase? If you go onto BH Photo Video there are tons of lenses. I don't even know where to start just to browse.
You can start from the User's Manual.

Also, why do some people put 35mm lenses on? Does this give the camera even more of a film look?
Yep.

[Terfyn]

The User Manual covers the Canon add on lenses TL-H43 and WD-H43. TL=telephoto WD= wideangle H= high definition and last but not least 43= the thread diameter on the lens mount of the HV20 in mm
Your reference to 35 mm probably means the adapters people fit to camcorders to give a more film like appearance. The 35mm refers to 35mm filmstock and the adapter focuses an image on to a ground glass screen to be photographed by the HV20. The effect is a shallow depth of field and a more defined subject.

[greenvette]

I see in the Canon manual that a TL-H43 and WD-H43 is available as optional lenses. Is there a Macro lens available or can I just screw on any lens with a 43mm thread?

[tcindie]

Any lens or filter with a 43mm thread should fit.

As for your question about the 35mm adapters, it allows you to have a shallow depth of field, which means that less is in focus at any given time -- much more like a film camera. Watch any movie and notice the background is often blurred out, or there will be a rack focus, something in the foreground becomes sharp while the previously sharp object/person in the background becomes blurry (or vice-versa). These are effects that are much easier to acheive with a 35mm adapter than without one.

[dr jones]

this is a time when you need to get an owners manual, or go to the library, or use wiki, or search for a FAQ about lenses.

[Worley]

I have a 50mm 35mm lens...

Now, if you don't know what that means, it's nonsense. The OP is probably confused by the different ways in which similar terminology is used. I don't feel it unreasonable for him to ask for guidance.

It's fine to say "RTFM", "Look at a wiki", etc but the truth is, the numbers are confusing and unless you a little understanding, and have an inkling of what you're looking for, finding an explanation can be daunting. I don't think it unreasonable that people ask for help here. I do think it unreasonable to be so dismissive. At least provide links.

[Terfyn]

I agree with you Worley BUT RTFM must surely be the first action of anyone owning new equipment. If, having read, there are questions, the Forum is the place to come.
The number of Firewire questions, all asking the same (do I need?) could fill a computer.
My other "gripe" is the inability to use the (excellent) Search facility before typing in the same question. The same queries arise time and time again.

[dr jones]

i find a 28, 35, 50, 85 and 135mm are all i need.