A camera without a lens is like macaroni without cheese, a ship without sails, Simon without Garfunkel… you get the point. Your lens is an important, multitasking gadget, allowing you full control over a variety of aspects to your shot. Aperture, focus, and focal length are all dictated by this handy device. But don’t take our word for it! Camera guru, Vincent LaForet is here with Blake to show us the basics on what lenses do and how to pick one that is best for your project.

Check out the video above and head over to see the full, three-part series on The Vimeo Video School!