Quote Originally Posted by pgowder
Why does it cost SO much more to make a lens f2.8 as opposed to f3.5 ro f4?

Thanks!

Pure size is part of it. A faster lens is a bigger lens, with larger glass elements. The larger a lens, the more expensive it is. Also, the larger the lens, the more exacting you have to be in the manufactuering process.

Also, the faster lenses, especially f2.8 and f1.4, are usually higher quality lenses. They are made to tighter specs and have advanced multicoatings on the lenses to reduce glare and reflections, as well as improve color and contrast.

You may also have noticed that the faster lenses are larger and heavier. Goes with the territory.

Personally, I love fast lenses, and if I had the money, I wouldn't have anything but f2.8's and faster!