I’ve been using a 40mm (equivalent) lens for years, and while I first discovered this odd focal length over a decade ago with Micro Four Thirds, it’s become a staple in my collection, enough to turn it from “weird” to “awesome.”
Focal length has also just been discovered by photographer cum YouTuber and photographer Robin Wongwhen he started to explore it through Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM lens, a cheap and versatile lens with a quiet stepping motor, even makes it a good choice for video. It’s a secret focal length that Micro Four Thirds shooters have known for years, and while he’s taking a break from reviewing and testing the whole thing, I guarantee he’ll love it.
Panasonic did something strange using Micro Four Thirds as a new system. In 2009, they released the Lumix GF1, a portable and highly anticipated camera at the time, with an odd choice of lenses, the 20mm f/1.7 pancake lens being the forerunner of the present. Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH . Lens. I bought it looking for optimal portability at the time. I was not disappointed. It’s not just the quality of the lens (which is great on both the new and old versions) but also the “Goldilocks” focal length. I feel not too long, like 50mm, and not too short, like 35mm has always felt for me. It allows for enough background with just enough bokeh to make things interesting. Here is an example of a beautiful moment with my son that I was able to capture with the lens:
Even though it’s not a platform taming monster like a 85mm f/1.8 possibly, the focal length can capture just enough bokeh to create a clear photo with context. This is even more so with the combination Wong is using, the Canon 5D, and the 40mm full frame lens, compared to the 20mm on the Micro Four Thirds body.
That makes this focal length seem suitable for relatively inexpensive pancake-style lenses. Therefore, if I’m shooting a lens during the day, it’s usually this lens, whether it’s full frame or Micro Four Thirds.
Have you shot with a 40mm lens before? What do you think about focal length compared to more traditional street photography lenses, such as 50mm or 35mm? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
