What is a key feature of prime lenses compared to zoom lenses?

A key feature of prime lenses compared to zoom lenses is that they capture more light. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which allows for a larger maximum aperture, enabling them to gather more light than many zoom lenses. This characteristic results in the ability to shoot in lower light conditions and can create a shallower depth of field, leading to more pronounced background blur (bokeh).

In contrast, zoom lenses have variable focal lengths, allowing filmmakers to quickly change their framing without physically moving the camera. While repositioning might involve moving closer or farther away to get the desired composition, it doesn’t directly address the inherent quality of light capture—a defining advantage of prime lenses. Their ability to focus on distant subjects or adjust the view through repositioning does not highlight the specific benefits that come with the design and aperture of prime lenses.