(beginner question) How do you know which lens will fit a 35mm camera?

I'm about to buy a 35mm in a few days and I have no idea how to tell which lens will fit a certain 35 mm camera.



For example, how do I know if a 80mm lens will fit a Argus C-3? Just an example of what I'm trying to explain, hope it helped.(beginner question) How do you know which lens will fit a 35mm camera?
You have to make sure the 'lens mount' is compatible with the make/model camera you have - any lens you purchase would have to be designed to fit an Argus C-3 camera (not a Nikon, or Canon, or Pentax, etc.). Lenses for that camera attach differently than the bayonet style mounts.



That doesn't mean the lens must be manufactured by the same company as the camera body you own or purchase. Just that the mount is compatible with the C-3 so your lens can be screwed on to your camera body.



For a standard lens, there's the Argus Coated Cintar 50mm f3.5. The German-made Sandmar 100mm f4.5 is the most commonly used telephoto lens for the C-3. But, Soligor of Japan also made a telephoto lens for the C-3 (135mm f4.5). There's also a Sandmar wide angle 35mm f/4.5 lens for the C-3.



You may want to get in touch with members of the Argus Collector's Group (or check out their website) if you're serious about buying one of these range-finder cameras.



Good luck!(beginner question) How do you know which lens will fit a 35mm camera?
The folks that sell cameras are very versed in the products they sell, you should direct all your questions to the experts you'll feel better by getting the straight scoop from the ones who sell it to you, that way if there is a problem you'll have the receipt and a leg to stand on.(beginner question) How do you know which lens will fit a 35mm camera?
As stated before, you'll have to know what kind of mount your chosen camera has. Most shops will have cameras and matching compatable lenses all in the same case.



If you buy a Nikon camera, you'll need a lens with a Nikon F-mount. If you buy a Canon, you'll need a lens with the correct Canon mount (Canon used several mounts through their lifetime). Pentax, you'll generally need a Pentax K-mount...etc. A lot of "off brands" (ie not Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Olympus) used the Pentax K-mount because of lens availability and commonality.



I'm not personally familiar with the Argus C-3 so I can't offer any help there, but I'd suggest going with a more common brand - it'll make your life a lot easier if you have to look for a F-Mount, K-mount or Canon lens than to find something for an obscure brand. There are also many 3rd party lens makers that make lenses in the 3 or 4 most popular brand's mount.