Focal length choice is a fundamental aspect of photographic composition, profoundly impacting the narrative and aesthetic quality of images. This intricate topic holds immense importance for photographers of all levels, as it dictates the visual perspective and storytelling approach in their work. This great video provides a deep dive into the subject, offering helpful insights sure to help you improve.
Coming to you from Samuel Elkins, this insightful video discusses the impact of focal length in photography, discussing his shift in photographic style and intent, moving from the more dramatic perspective of wider angles to a subtler, more natural framing found in the 35mm and 50mm range. Different focal lengths can subtly alter the narrative and emotional tone of their images. Elkins’ preference for these focal lengths in diverse contexts – from street photography to landscapes – exemplifies their versatility and capacity for creating a sense of immediacy and authenticity in images.
With the proliferation of capable zoom lenses, we often think about focal length a lot less, simply standing in one place and zooming to fill the frame. But learning to make deliberate choices with regards to focal length can significantly improve your work and help you develop a more consistent portfolio. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Elkins.
