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A Simple Guide to Focal Lengths
This 3min read will change the way you look at your lenses
Everyone has their favorite lens…or two, or seven. Often those lenses will probably sit within a range of similar focal lengths.
For me, I love 50mm and 85mm lenses. Lately I’ve been shooting more 28mm and 35mm, but when backed into a corner, I’ll still pick my subject focused fifties and eighty-fives.
We’ve all heard that 35mm is a great all-rounder, or that 50mm is “the” portrait lens. More niche groups like street photographers and fashion photographers will sing the praises of 28mm and 85mm respectively.
Why is this? And whats the quick psychology of lens focal lengths?
Below is a quick “cheat sheet” of what most standard focal lengths equate to at their most basic level, and why.
Is this 100% science based? Not exactly, but neither is photography as an art. It’s also about feel.These are general guidelines and ways to remember what each lens or zoom range is for.
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment or direct message me on IG @elijahrha or @foxfotoco , I’ll happily respond to anyone on either!
