Choosing the Right Lens - A Guide to Focal Lengths & Lens Types
When it comes to photography, one of the most decisive decisions you'll make is choosing the right lens. Lenses come in a variety of focal lengths and types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at different focal lengths and the types of photography they are best suited for. We'll also take a closer look at the differences between prime and zoom lenses.
Ultra-wide angle (less than 24mm)
Ultra-wide angle lenses have a focal length of less than 24mm. These lenses have a very wide field of view, allowing you to capture a lot of the scene in front of you. They are often used in landscape photography, as they allow you to capture the entire landscape, including the foreground, middle-ground, and background. They can also be used for architectural photography. This is because they can capture the entire building in one shot, including the sides and corners that might be cut off with a narrower lens.
Ultra-wide angle lenses are also good for interior photography, as they can capture the entire room and give a sense of space. They can also be used for group shots, as they can fit more people into the frame. However, they can also cause distortion, especially at the edges of the frame, so it's wise to be aware of this when composing your shots.
Additionally, ultra-wide angle lenses can create a sense of depth and can be used for creative effects like creating a sense of scale, exaggerating perspectives, and creating dynamic compositions. They are also good for night photography and astrophotography, as they can capture more of the night sky.
It's worth noting that ultra-wide angle lenses are not suitable for all types of photography and are not always necessary, but they can be a useful tool for certain types of shots and can help you to capture more of the scene in front of you.
The image below was taken using a Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM whilst on a trip to Finland.
Wide-angle (24-35mm)
Wide-angle lenses have a focal length between 24-35mm. They are similar to ultra-wide angle lenses in that they have a wide field of view, but they are less extreme and often considered more versatile.
Like ultra-wide angle lenses, wide-angle lenses are often used in landscape photography to capture a wide field of view and show the entire landscape. They are also well suited for architectural photography, as they can capture the entire building and show the surrounding environment.
Wide-angle lenses are also popular in street photography, as they can capture more of the scene, including the background and foreground, and can be used to create dynamic compositions. They are suitable for group shots, as they can fit more people into the frame. They are also suitable for portraits, but you need to be farther away from the subject.
Wide-angle lenses can also cause distortion, especially at the edges of the frame, so it's wise to be aware of this when composing your shots. They can also create a sense of depth and can be used for creative effects like exaggerating perspectives and creating dynamic compositions.
It's worth noting that wide-angle lenses are not suitable for all types of photography, but they can be a useful tool for certain types of shots and can help you capture more of the scene in front of you. They are more versatile than ultra-wide angle lenses and can be used for a variety of photography genres.
Standard (35-70mm)
Standard lenses have a focal length between 35-70mm, which is considered the "normal" range, as it provides a field of view similar to that of the human eye. These lenses are versatile and are suitable for a wide range of photography, including portraits, street photography, and everyday shooting.
Standard lenses are ideally suited for portraits, as they provide a natural-looking perspective and can be used to create a more intimate, personal feel. They are also great for street photography, as they allow you to capture candid moments while still showing the background and surrounding environment.
Standard lenses are also good for everyday shooting, as they are versatile and can be used for a wide range of subjects and situations. They can be used for landscapes, architecture, and other types of photography as well.
Standard lenses are less likely to cause distortion than ultra-wide angle or wide-angle lenses, and they are generally considered to be a reliable all-around lens. They are usually small and lightweight, making them easy to carry and handle.
It's worth noting that standard lenses may not be the most appropriate choice for certain types of photography, such as wildlife or sports photography. This is because a longer focal length is required to zoom in on the subject. However, they can be a viable choice for general purpose photography and everyday use. They are versatile, less prone to distortion and suitable for a wide range of photography genres.
The image below was taken on my Sony FE 28-70mm.
Telephoto (70-200mm)
Telephoto lenses have a focal length between 70-200mm. They are best suited for wildlife and sports photography, as they allow you to zoom in and capture subjects from a distance. They can also be used for portraits, but you need to be farther away from the subject.
Telephoto lenses are ideal for wildlife and sports photography, as they allow you to capture subjects that are far away and zoom in on the action. They can also be used for bird photography and other types of nature photography, where you need to zoom in to capture fine details.
Telephoto lenses can also be used for portraits, but you need to be farther away from the subject to avoid distortion. They can be used to create a more flattering perspective and isolate the subject from the background. They can also be used for event photography and other types of photography that require you to capture subjects from a distance.
Telephoto lenses are usually larger and heavier than standard lenses, and they may require a tripod or other support to keep them steady. They also have a shallower depth of field, which can be used for creative effects such as selective focus.
It's worth noting that telephoto lenses are not suitable for all types of photography. However, they can be a useful tool for certain types of shots, such as capturing subjects that are far away or isolating the subject from the background. They are also good for capturing fine details and creating selective focus.
The photo below was taken on my Sony FE 70-200 F2.8 GM II whilst travelling in Thailand.
Super telephoto (over 200mm)
Super telephoto lenses have a focal length over 200mm. These lenses are ideal for wildlife and sports photography, but they are also used for bird photography and other types of nature photography. They allow you to zoom in even closer than telephoto lenses and capture incredibly detailed shots.
Super telephoto lenses are useful for capturing fast-moving subjects such as wildlife, birds, or sports events. They allow you to zoom in to capture fine details and create dramatic compositions. They are also great for isolating the subject from the background, which can be especially useful for wildlife or bird photography.
Super telephoto lenses are even larger and heavier than telephoto lenses, and they usually require a tripod or other support to keep them steady. They also have a very shallow depth of field, which can be used for creative effects such as selective focus.
It's worth noting that super telephoto lenses are specialised lenses. They are not suitable for all types of photography. However, they are most suitable for capturing objects that are far away and for capturing fine details. They are also good for creating selective focus and isolating the subject from the background. They are often used by professional photographers in fields such as wildlife, sports, and bird photography.
What is the difference between a prime lens and a zoom lens?
Here are some key differences between a prime and a zoom lens:
Focal length: A prime lens has a fixed focal length, meaning that the focal length cannot be changed. A zoom lens, on the other hand, has a variable focal length, meaning that the focal length can be adjusted to change the angle of view.
Image quality: Prime lenses often have better image quality than zoom lenses, due to the fact that they have fewer moving parts and are optimized for a single focal length. They generally have better sharpness, contrast, and low-light performance.
Aperture: Prime lenses usually have a larger maximum aperture than zoom lenses, allowing for better low-light performance and more background blur. This also allows for more creative control over the depth of field.
Size and weight: Prime lenses are generally smaller and lighter than zoom lenses, making them more portable and easier to carry around.
Cost: Prime lenses are often less expensive than zoom lenses, as they are simpler in design and have fewer moving parts.
Specialisation: Prime lenses are specialised lenses. They are optimized for a specific focal length and are perfect for certain types of photography, such as portraits, street photography, landscape, etc. While zoom lenses are more versatile and allow you to change the focal length without changing lenses.
It's important to note that both prime and zoom lenses have their own advantages and disadvantages. The most appropriate choice will depend on the type of photography you're doing and your personal preferences. While prime lenses tend to have better image quality and aperture, zoom lenses offer versatility and the ability to change focal length without changing lenses.
In conclusion, understanding the range of focal lengths and types of lenses can help you make a more informed decision when choosing a lens for your camera. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, having a good understanding of the different lenses available will help you get the most out of your photography. Remember that the best lens for you will depend on the type of photography you're doing and your personal preferences. It's always a worthwhile idea to try out different lenses and see which one works best for you.