Street Photography: Choosing your Focal Length (85mm, 50mm, 35mm, 28mm)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll explore how to choose the right focal length for street photography, drawing insights from Sean Tucker's video. Understanding focal lengths can significantly impact your photography style and the stories you tell through your images. We'll cover the journey through various focal lengths—85mm, 50mm, 35mm, and 28mm—and how each can enhance your street photography.

Step 1: Understand the Focal Lengths

Get familiar with common focal lengths used in street photography:

• 85mm:

  • Offers a compression effect, allowing you to isolate subjects effectively.
  • Ideal for portraits and capturing candid moments from a distance.
  • Can create a more intimate feel without intruding on personal space.

• 50mm:

  • Often described as a "standard" lens; provides a natural perspective.
  • Versatile for both portraits and wider street scenes.
  • Encourages you to engage more with your surroundings and subjects.

• 35mm:

  • Provides a wider field of view while still allowing for subject isolation.
  • Great for capturing dynamic street scenes and interactions.
  • Balances between space and subject, making it a favorite among street photographers.

• 28mm:

  • Wider angle allows for more context in shots.
  • Useful for capturing expansive scenes and crowd interactions.
  • Requires closer proximity to subjects, often leading to more immersive photographs.

Step 2: Experiment with Each Focal Length

Try each lens in various street photography scenarios to understand their impact:

1. Set Up a Photography Session:

   • Choose a busy street or urban environment.
   • Bring your camera and lenses (85mm, 50mm, 35mm, 28mm).

2. Capture with Each Lens:

   • Spend time shooting with each focal length.
   • Focus on different aspects such as isolation, context, and interaction.

3. Review Your Photos:

   • Analyze how each lens influenced your compositions.
   • Consider which lens made you feel more comfortable or creative.

Step 3: Reflect on Your Experience

After experimenting, take time to evaluate your experience:

• Identify Your Preferences:

  • Which focal length felt most natural to you?
  • Which one helped you tell the stories you wanted to capture?

• Consider Practical Applications:

  • Think about the types of street photography you enjoy most (e.g., portraits, environmental shots).
  • Choose a focal length that aligns with your vision and style.

Step 4: Avoid Common Pitfalls

Be aware of common mistakes when choosing a focal length:

• Overthinking Your Choice:

  • Don’t get caught up in the technical details; focus on what feels right for you.

• Ignoring Your Environment:

  • The environment should guide your choice; adapt to the surroundings rather than sticking to one lens.

• Limiting Yourself to One Focal Length:

  • Experimenting with different lenses can broaden your skills and perspectives.

Conclusion

Choosing the right focal length for street photography is a personal journey that can enhance your storytelling abilities. By understanding the characteristics of each lens and experimenting with them, you can discover which focal length resonates with your style. Remember to keep an open mind and adapt to various shooting scenarios. Happy shooting!