The 50mm focal length is among the most used across different photography genres, and by photography masters across history. But if you’re new to the 50mm lens, today’s featured video should help you get started.
In the video above, Jorge Delgado-Ureña of The Raw Society shares his insights on 50mm — its strengths and what makes it the focal length of choice for many. He also provides some tips on using the focal length to improve your photography, particularly for street and travel photography.
For example, the focal length’s closer perspective allows you to bring attention to details that viewers would likely miss with a wider focal length like 35mm or 24mm. This quality, Delgado-Ureña notes, enables photographers to approach their work in narratives. In turn, this is why 50mm lenses are often used for portraits and documentary photography.
Another benefit of the 50mm is that it produces images that look natural and free of distortion. As such, it’s considered as a “normal” lens. However, its narrower field of view will also force you to think more carefully about your composition and what you include in the frame.
Do you agree with the points that Jorge Delgado-Ureña mentioned above? What in particular inspired you to gain mastery of 50mm for narrative street and travel photography? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start a discussion!
