Wide-Angle (16mm - 35mm)
Wide-angle lenses capture more of the scene, making them ideal for landscapes, architecture, and environmental portraits. They exaggerate perspective, making objects closer to the lens appear larger, which can be used creatively but can also distort facial features in portraits. Great for storytelling and capturing context, but less ideal for tight, flattering portraits.
Standard (35mm - 50mm)
The 35mm and 50mm range is often considered the most “natural” perspective, closest to what the human eye sees. This makes them excellent all-purpose lenses, great for street photography, documentary work, and portraits with some background context. The 50mm, often called the “nifty fifty,” is a classic for a reason—sharp, lightweight, and versatile.
Telephoto (85mm - 200mm+)
Longer focal lengths offer compression, meaning they bring background elements closer and create a more flattering perspective for portraits. An 85mm is often the go-to for portrait photographers because it smooths features and separates the subject from the background with beautiful bokeh. Going beyond 135mm, you’re looking at lenses used for sports, wildlife, and more distant subjects.
Zoom vs. Prime
A zoom lens gives you multiple focal lengths in one, which can be useful for flexibility. A prime lens is a fixed focal length, often sharper, faster (with wider apertures like f/1.8 or f/1.4), and forces you to move rather than rely on zooming. Both have their place depending on your shooting style and needs.
The Right Lens for the Right Shot
There’s no single “best” focal length - it depends on what you’re shooting and how you want it to look. Understanding how focal length affects perspective, compression, and background separation helps you make informed choices. Experiment, find what works for your style, and remember: the best lens is the one that helps you tell your story.
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My Gear
Choosing the right photography gear - body or lens - can completely transform your photography. Whether you need a wide-angle lens for breathtaking landscapes, a fast prime for stunning portraits, or a versatile zoom for everyday shooting, the right focal length makes all the difference.
Here, you’ll find the camera bodies and lenses I use and recommend, categorised by brand, Fujifilm and Canon.
Click on the links to check them out, and if you purchase through an affiliate link, it helps support my work at no extra cost to you.
See my gear in action⬇
