Written by Snehal Patel
As a filmmaker, there is a lot to learn. It takes a lifetime of experience and education to continue creating compelling content. One of the most complicated topics to discuss about filmmaking is the photography. Cinematographers, who are in charge of delivering the photography, are always some mix of artist and technician. There are many topics to keep track of and lots of variables to control, which have to be done with good taste and deliver the artistic intent of the story.
One of the variables that Cinematographers control is lens choice. A subset of lens choice is determining which focal lengths are needed for a project. Prime lenses always come in sets of 3 to 15 focal lengths, or more. So, let’s “focus” on prime lenses and focal length choice by answering some basic questions.
What are focal lengths?
Focal lengths, marked in millimeters (mm) are best categorized as magnification choices. Wider focal lengths like 12mm, 15mm, etc. have less magnification, and longer (or more telephoto) focal lengths like 135mm, 150mm, 200mm, etc., have more magnification. Each focal length in between has its own flavor.
Free for members
Sign up free to keep reading
It’s free and takes less than 30 seconds. You’ll also get our Interstellar issue free, free webinars with award-winning filmmakers, and a community of filmmakers sharing their work.
No credit card. Continue with Google or your email.
