A digital camera lens’s aperture directly affects the amount of light that is allowed into the image centre. A camera’s aperture is usually measured in f-stops. A lower f-stop number means that the opening is larger, allowing more light to enter into the lens.
A lens that can open to a wider aperture is generally accepted to be a better option because it gives users a greater amount of creative control. A wide aperture lens lets the user maintain faster shutter speeds which provides a clearer image when using a hand-held camera. Another advantage is that a wide aperture gives photographers the ability to throw backgrounds out of focus should they choose to do so.
Lenses with wider apertures tend to be heavier and more expensive than those with narrower apertures. Even if you are willing to spend the extra money, it is wise to test the weight of the lens before making your decision. If you are purchasing a camera to document an overseas trip, for example, a camera with a lighter lens might be a better option.