Almost any photographer will tell you that, except for a few exceptions, you should always get close to your subject instead of using your zoom. Exceptions may include those that might put you in danger, including taking photos of dangerous animals, where you should obviously not get too close!

Getting in closer can reduce needed zoom, helping prevent camera shake. Also, by not using a telephoto lens, you almost eliminate the chance of a vignette around your photo.

However, when taking portrait close-ups of someone's face, stepping back and using your digital camera's zoom lens might be a good idea. Some people may be intimidated by a digital camera too close to their face as you try to fill most of the frame with their visage, so stepping back may put these people at ease.

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