85mm in Inches: A Detailed Guide to Understanding the Conversion and Its Applications

Introduction

In photography, videography, and other fields, the metric measurement of millimeters (mm) is frequently used to describe the focal length of lenses. However, many individuals in the United States and other countries that use the imperial system may find it easier to understand measurements in inches. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the conversion from 85mm to inches, its significance in various applications, and practical examples to enhance your comprehension.

Conversion from 85mm to Inches

The conversion from millimeters to inches is straightforward:

1 inch = 25.4 millimeters

Using this conversion factor, we can easily calculate that:

85mm = 85 / 25.4 = 3.346 inches

Significance of 85mm in Photography

In photography, 85mm is considered a classic focal length for portraiture. It offers a slightly tighter field of view than the standard 50mm lens, resulting in a compression effect that flatters facial features and reduces background distractions. The 85mm focal length allows for a comfortable working distance from the subject, making it suitable for capturing natural and intimate portraits.

Applications of 85mm

Beyond portraiture, the 85mm focal length has various other applications:

• Documentary and Street Photography: When used for documentary or street photography, an 85mm lens can help isolate subjects from their surroundings while maintaining a reasonable distance. It enables photographers to capture candid moments without disturbing the subject's natural behavior.
• Fashion and Commercial Photography: In fashion and commercial photography, an 85mm lens is often used to showcase products or garments up close. Its ability to blur the background helps draw attention to the primary subject and create a more polished look.
• Wedding Photography: 85mm lenses are popular among wedding photographers for capturing portraits of the couple, family, and guests. The compressed perspective helps convey a sense of intimacy and emotion, making it ideal for documenting special moments.
• Videography: In videography, 85mm lenses are commonly used for interviews, medium shots, and close-ups. Their ability to isolate subjects and create a shallow depth of field contributes to a visually appealing and engaging video.

Benefits of Using an 85mm Lens

Using an 85mm lens offers several benefits:

• Flattering Portraits: The slightly compressed perspective of an 85mm lens is flattering to facial features, making it ideal for capturing stunning portraits.
• Bokeh Control: An 85mm lens typically has a wide aperture, resulting in a shallow depth of field that creates attractive bokeh (out-of-focus areas). This effect helps isolate the subject from the background and directs the viewer's attention.
• Versatile Focal Length: The 85mm focal length is versatile and can be used for various applications, including portraits, product photography, and videography.
• Lightweight and Portable: Compared to longer telephoto lenses, an 85mm lens is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry and use in different settings.

Considerations When Choosing an 85mm Lens

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

• Sensor Size: The sensor size of your camera will impact the field of view of an 85mm lens. On a full-frame camera, an 85mm lens will provide a narrower field of view compared to a crop-sensor camera.
• Aperture: The wider the aperture (lower f-number), the shallower the depth of field. Choose a lens with a wide aperture (e.g., f/1.2, f/1.4) for maximum bokeh control.
• Image Stabilization: If you plan to shoot handheld or in low-light conditions, consider a lens with image stabilization to minimize camera shake.
• Price: 85mm lenses can vary in price depending on the brand, features, and build quality. Determine your budget and research different options to find a lens that meets your needs and financial constraints.

Real-World Examples

To illustrate the practical applications of an 85mm lens, here are a few examples:

• Example 1: A fashion photographer uses an 85mm lens to capture a close-up of a model wearing a new clothing collection. The shallow depth of field blurs the background and highlights the intricate details of the garment.
• Example 2: A documentary photographer documents a street vendor in a busy market using an 85mm lens. The lens isolates the vendor from the chaotic surroundings, allowing the photographer to capture an intimate moment without distractions.
• Example 3: A videographer interviews a subject for a promotional video. The 85mm lens creates a medium close-up shot that keeps the subject's face in focus while subtly blurring the background, creating a professional and engaging visual effect.

What We Can Learn from These Examples

These examples demonstrate how an 85mm lens can effectively:

• Capture flattering and impactful portraits by reducing background distractions and emphasizing facial features.
• Isolate subjects from their surroundings to highlight specific details or convey a sense of intimacy.
• Create visually appealing videos by providing a natural and engaging perspective for close-ups and medium shots.

Pros and Cons of 85mm Lenses

Like any lens, 85mm lenses have their advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Excellent for portraiture and flattering facial features
• Provides a versatile focal length suitable for various applications
• Creates a shallow depth of field for beautiful bokeh
• Often lightweight and portable

Cons:

• May not be suitable for all types of photography (e.g., landscapes)
• Can be more expensive than other focal lengths
• May require additional lighting in low-light conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between an 85mm f/1.2 and an 85mm f/1.8 lens?

A: The main difference is the maximum aperture. An 85mm f/1.2 lens has a wider aperture, allowing for shallower depth of field and better low-light performance.

Q2: Can I use an 85mm lens for landscape photography?

A: While not ideal for expansive landscape shots, an 85mm lens can be used for capturing details or isolating elements within a landscape.

Q3: Is an 85mm lens good for street photography?

A: Yes, an 85mm lens can be effective for street photography, allowing photographers to isolate subjects from their surroundings while maintaining a comfortable distance.

Q4: What is the crop factor for an 85mm lens on a crop-sensor camera?

A: The crop factor will vary depending on the specific camera model. For example, on a Canon APS-C camera with a 1.6x crop factor, an 85mm lens will have an effective focal length of approximately 136mm.

Q5: Is it better to choose an 85mm lens with or without image stabilization?

A: Image stabilization can be beneficial, especially for handheld shooting or low-light situations where camera shake may be a concern.

Q6: Can I use an 85mm lens for both photography and videography?

A: Yes, an 85mm lens is versatile and can be used effectively for both photography and videography applications, including portraits, interviews, and close-up shots.