85mm in Inches: The Essential Guide

Introduction

In the world of photography, millimeters and inches are two interchangeable units of measurement when describing a lens's focal length. Understanding the conversion between these two units is crucial for photographers to select the right lenses for their needs. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of converting 85mm to inches, providing valuable information on lens selection, lens properties, and practical applications.

Understanding the Concept

The focal length of a lens, measured in millimeters or inches, determines the field of view and perspective of the image captured. An 85mm lens is a short telephoto lens, providing a narrower field of view compared to wide-angle lenses. This focal length is ideal for capturing portraits, isolating subjects from the background, and creating a flattering perspective.

Conversion: 85mm to Inches

To convert 85mm to inches, we can use the following formula:

inches = millimeters / 25.4

Plugging in the value of 85mm, we get:

inches = 85mm / 25.4 = 3.35 inches

Therefore, 85mm is equivalent to 3.35 inches.

Lens Selection and Properties

85mm Lens Characteristics:

• Focal Length: 3.35 inches
• Field of View: Narrow (28.3 degrees)
• Aperture Range: Typically f/1.2 to f/2.8
• Ideal for: Portraits, street photography, event coverage

Lens Selection Considerations:

When selecting an 85mm lens, consider the following factors:

• Aperture: Higher-aperture lenses (e.g., f/1.2) allow more light to pass through, resulting in brighter images and shallower depth of field.
• Optic Quality: Choose lenses with high-quality glass elements and coatings to minimize aberrations and ensure sharp images.
• Autofocus: Look for lenses with fast and reliable autofocus systems for capturing moving subjects.
• Size and Weight: Consider the lens's physical dimensions and weight, especially if you plan on using it for handheld shooting.

Practical Applications

Using an 85mm Lens:

85mm lenses excel in the following photographic scenarios:

• Portraits: Isolate the subject and create a stunning background blur.
• Street Photography: Capture candid moments with a natural perspective.
• Event Coverage: Document events with a wide range of expressions and emotions.
• Fine Art Photography: Explore creative compositions with a unique field of view.

Stories and Learning

Story 1: The Beauty of Portraits

Photographer Susan Smith used an 85mm lens to capture a captivating portrait of a local artist. By narrowing the field of view, she focused the viewer's attention on the artist's eyes and expression, conveying their passion and creativity.

Lesson: An 85mm lens allows photographers to isolate the subject and create visually impactful portraits.

Story 2: Street Photography Moments

Street photographer John Carter relied on his 85mm lens to document the bustling streets of New York City. The lens's narrow field of view allowed him to capture candid moments with both intimacy and a sense of scale.

Lesson: An 85mm lens provides a natural perspective and versatility for street photographers.

Story 3: Event Coverage with Character

Event photographer Mary Johnson used a high-aperture 85mm lens to capture the emotional depth of a wedding ceremony. The lens's shallow depth of field isolated the couple, highlighting their joy and connection.

Lesson: An 85mm lens enables photographers to create striking images and convey the essence of events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overreliance on Autofocus: Be mindful of the lens's autofocus abilities and make manual adjustments as needed to ensure accuracy.
• Shooting at Too Wide an Aperture: While shallow depth of field can be visually appealing, avoid using too wide an aperture, as it can result in a lack of sharpness.
• Neglecting Composition: Pay attention to the overall composition and use the 85mm lens's field of view to create visually balanced images.

Why 85mm Matters

• Subtle Background Blur: 85mm lenses produce a pleasing background blur (bokeh), which helps isolate subjects and create a sense of depth.
• Versatility: 85mm lenses can be used in a wide range of photographic genres, from portraits to street photography.
• Compact Size: Compared to longer telephoto lenses, 85mm lenses are relatively compact and easy to carry.
• Affordable Price: 85mm lenses are generally more affordable than longer telephoto options.

Benefits of 85mm Lenses

• Sharp and Detailed Images: 85mm lenses typically feature high-quality optics that produce sharp and detailed images.
• Exceptional Low-Light Performance: Wide-aperture 85mm lenses can capture well-exposed images even in low-light conditions.
• Favorite of Portrait Photographers: 85mm lenses have become a staple choice for portrait photographers due to their flattering perspective and ability to isolate subjects.

Pros and Cons Table

Comparison of 85mm Lenses from Different Brands

Conclusion

Understanding the conversion between millimeters and inches is crucial for photographers to select the right lenses for their needs. An 85mm lens, equivalent to 3.35 inches, is an incredibly versatile tool that excels in capturing portraits, street scenes, and detailed images. By considering the lens selection factors, practical applications, and advantages outlined in this guide, photographers can harness the power of 85mm lenses to create stunning and meaningful images.