Understanding 85mm: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Equivalence in Inches

Introduction

In the realm of photography, the concept of focal length plays a crucial role in determining the field of view and perspective of an image. One common focal length used in portrait photography is 85mm. But for those new to the metric system, understanding how 85mm translates into inches can be a little confusing. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the conversion between 85mm and inches, providing photographers with clear and practical information.

Transition: Let's delve into the conversion process and explore its implications for your photographic endeavors.

Converting 85mm to Inches: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Introduction to Conversion Factors

To convert millimeters (mm) to inches, we use a conversion factor of 0.03937. This means that 1 inch is equivalent to 25.4 mm.

Transition: With this conversion factor in mind, let's apply it to our task.

Step 2: Calculating the Conversion

To convert 85mm to inches, we multiply 85mm by the conversion factor:

85mm x 0.03937 = **3.346 inches**

Transition: Therefore, 85mm is approximately equal to 3.346 inches.

Table 1: Common Focal Lengths and Their Inch Equivalents

Transition: This table provides a quick reference for converting popular focal lengths to their inch equivalents.

The Significance of 85mm for Portrait Photography

For portrait photographers, an 85mm lens offers several distinct advantages:

• Flattering Perspective: 85mm falls within the short telephoto range, providing a slightly compressed perspective that flatters the human face. It helps minimize facial distortion and accentuates facial features.
• Natural Background Compression: The longer focal length of an 85mm lens compresses the background, creating a pleasing bokeh effect that draws attention to the subject.
• Optimal Working Distance: 85mm allows photographers to maintain a comfortable working distance from their subjects, minimizing the risk of intimidating or causing discomfort.

Transition: Understanding the benefits of 85mm for portraiture can enhance your photographic skills.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Transformative Power of 85mm

A young photographer struggled to capture flattering portraits of her clients. Desperate for a solution, she rented an 85mm lens. To her surprise, the difference was astonishing. The portraits exuded a natural elegance, with reduced distortion and a beautifully blurred background.

Lesson Learned: The right lens can significantly elevate your photography. An 85mm lens can transform portraits, making them more flattering and professional-looking.

Story 2: The Importance of Practice

A seasoned photographer purchased an 85mm lens but initially felt overwhelmed by its unfamiliar field of view. However, through consistent practice, she mastered the art of using this lens. She learned to anticipate the flattering perspective and utilize the background compression to create stunning portraits.

Lesson Learned: Patience and practice are essential for mastering any lens. Embrace the learning curve and invest time in experimenting with 85mm to harness its full potential.

Story 3: The Value of Patience and Planning

A photographer had a limited amount of time to capture a portrait of a celebrity. Instead of rushing into the shoot, she carefully planned her angles and compositions using the 85mm lens. The resulting portrait was sharp, flattering, and captured the celebrity's personality perfectly.

Lesson Learned: Preparation and patience are key to successful photography. Take the time to assess your subject and environment before using an 85mm lens.

Why 85mm Matters for Your Photography

• Exceptional Portraiture: 85mm excels in creating flattering portraits with natural background compression.
• Professional Appearance: Using an 85mm lens conveys a sense of professionalism and technical expertise.
• Versatility: 85mm is also suitable for various genres, including street photography, candid shots, and even close-up product photography.

Transition: Let's explore some additional benefits of using an 85mm lens.

Benefits of Using an 85mm Lens

• Sharpness: 85mm lenses typically have a wide maximum aperture, resulting in images with exceptional sharpness.
• Bokeh Control: The long focal length of 85mm allows for precise control over bokeh, creating smooth, creamy backgrounds that enhance the subject's presence.
• Low Light Performance: 85mm lenses often feature a fast maximum aperture, enabling photographers to shoot in low light conditions without compromising image quality.

Transition: Next, let's address some frequently asked questions about 85mm lenses.

FAQs

1. What type of camera is best suited for 85mm lenses?

Full-frame cameras are ideal for 85mm lenses, as they provide the full field of view without cropping. However, 85mm lenses can also be used on APS-C cameras, albeit with a narrower field of view.

2. Is an 85mm lens suitable for beginners?

While 85mm lenses offer exceptional capabilities, they require some practice to master. Beginners may prefer to start with a more general-purpose lens like a 50mm before experimenting with longer focal lengths.

3. What is the difference between an 85mm f/1.8 and an 85mm f/2.8 lens?

The aperture (f-number) indicates the size of the lens opening. An 85mm f/1.8 lens has a wider maximum aperture, allowing for brighter images and shallower depth of field than an 85mm f/2.8 lens.

4. How much should I expect to pay for an 85mm lens?

The cost of an 85mm lens varies depending on the brand, features, and other factors. Entry-level 85mm lenses can start from around $500, while professional-grade lenses can exceed $2,000.

5. Can I use an 85mm lens for wildlife photography?

While 85mm is not typically used for wildlife photography, it can be effective for capturing portraits of animals from a closer distance. However, it is important to note that the longer focal length may require a tripod or stabilization system to avoid camera shake.

6. What other focal lengths are comparable to 85mm for portrait photography?

Other focal lengths that can be considered for portrait photography include 50mm, 70mm, and 105mm. Each focal length offers its own unique perspective and advantages.

Call to Action

Embrace the transformative power of an 85mm lens and elevate your photography to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, an 85mm lens can help you capture flattering portraits, achieve professional-looking results, and explore your creativity in various genres. So, invest in an 85mm lens today and unlock the potential of this versatile and powerful focal length.