28mm

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Exploring the 28mm Focal Length: A Versatile Choice for Full Frame and Crop Sensors
Let’s take a closer look at the 28mm focal length and why it’s such an intriguing option. On a full-frame camera, 28mm provides a slightly wide field of view that’s perfect for capturing context without feeling too distorted. If you’re using a crop-sensor (often referred to as APS-C or Super 35), that same 28mm lens behaves more like a 40mm-an excellent “normal-wide” option that retains much of the versatility you’d get on full frame, just with a tighter angle.
Why 28mm?
• Contextual Wide: On full frame, 28mm is wide enough to include surrounding details, making it fantastic for street photography, environmental portraits, and travel shots where you want to showcase both the subject and setting.
• Natural Feel on Crop: When mounted on a crop-sensor camera, 28mm approximates a 40mm field of view. Many photographers regard 40mm as a “sweet spot,” providing a balance between the classic 35mm and 50mm looks.
Zone Focusing Explained
Zone focusing is a popular technique for street photographers, especially when shooting at wider focal lengths like 28mm. Simply put, you pre-focus your lens to a certain distance (or zone) and rely on the camera’s depth of field to keep subjects in focus as they move within that zone. It’s incredibly useful for quickly capturing candid moments without fumbling to adjust focus for every shot.
However, explaining it can be trickier than doing it:
1. Choose an Aperture: Typically, you’d opt for a smaller aperture (like f/8 or f/11) to maximize depth of field.
2. Set Your Focus Distance: Decide how far away your main subjects tend to be-perhaps 2-3 meters-and lock your focus there.
3. Compose and Shoot: As long as subjects remain within the focused zone, they’ll appear sharp enough in your frame.
Quick Note on Gear
In the demo shown here, I mentioned an OM-2n, but it’s actually an OM-2SP-my mistake! Regardless, the core principle of zone focusing remains the same no matter which camera you’re using.
Inspiration: Bruce Davidson
If you want to see the incredible potential of a 28mm lens in street photography, look no further than Bruce Davidson. His work-including the photo book “Subway” and “Bruce Davidson in Color”-showcases the immersive, up-close feel that 28mm can deliver. Davidson often used this focal length to capture intimate, compelling images, proving how a slightly wide field of view can bring viewers right into the scene.
In Summary
Whether you’re shooting full frame and craving a slightly wide perspective or looking for a solid “normal-wide” option on a crop sensor, the 28mm lens is a powerhouse of versatility. Combine that with zone focusing, and you’ll be well on your way to capturing candid, dynamic photos-just like the masters of street photography.
amazon affiliate link below so if you buy it, you pay the same, but I may be able to afford another roll of film in the future.
Bruce Davidson ....subway
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Bruce Davidson .....in color
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A better explanation of zone focus here
• CAMERA FOCUS PART 4/ZO...
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