Hi Rob, and welcome.
Yes, the smaller a number means more light gathering (and a faster lens)
which means a (usually) faster shutter speed. That is ONLY if you are shooting
at
wide open, (the lowest f number). Doesn't matter in terms of speed if you use
lens "A" at f/4 or lens "Z" at f/4. Then, you'll get the same shutter speed.
_Most_ faster lenses are generally better, but are more expensive. Some
examples may not differ much at all in the quality of the results if you use
the
f/2 or the f/2.8 version of the Zuiko lens.
And, yes, generally fixed focal length lenses (called 'prime' lenses) are
faster and yields better results than a variable focal length zoom, or, for
that
matter, are better than a zoom of that focal length.
As in anything else, you pay for performance. Fortunately, there aren't any
real "dogs" in the Zuiko lens line, so if you buy a well cared for, fungus-free
lens, you'll enjoy good results. If you want to buy, just ask here before you
trust a stranger on ebay or somewhere. We're always buying and selling here!
Best,
George S.
> Am I right in saying that the better lenses of each length grouping are the
> ones with the lowest f number and largest apperture?
> When people say a lense is fast are they saying the largest aperture is
> large and hence lets more light through, hence a faster exposure?
>
> Am I correct in saying that if I have time to set up for a picture I should
> use a fixed length lense rather than a zoom at that length to get the best
> results?
>
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