85mm to Inches: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In the realm of photography, understanding the conversion between millimeters (mm) and inches (in) is crucial for achieving desired image sizes and aspect ratios. 85mm, a common focal length for portrait photography, is often expressed in inches for ease of comprehension. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the conversion of 85mm to inches, empowering you to make informed decisions regarding camera settings and image composition.

Conversion Formula

The conversion between 85mm to inches is straightforward:

85mm x 0.0393701 = 3.346 inches

This formula represents the conversion factor of 0.0393701, which is the approximate number of inches in 1 millimeter.

Table of Conversions

For quick reference, the following table provides conversions for a range of millimeter values to inches:

Using 85mm in Photography

An 85mm lens is a versatile choice for portrait photography, providing a comfortable working distance while allowing for flattering perspectives. The 3.346 inches focal length translates to a field of view that isolates the subject from the background, creating a pleasing depth of field effect. In full-frame cameras, an 85mm lens offers an angle of view of approximately 28.3 degrees.

Stories and Learning

Story 1: A photographer captures stunning portraits using an 85mm lens, effectively blurring the background and highlighting the subject's features.

Learning: The appropriate use of focal length enhances image composition, isolating the subject and conveying depth.

Story 2: A hobbyist struggles to achieve a shallow depth of field with their 50mm lens, realizing that a longer focal length such as 85mm is necessary.

Learning: Understanding the relationship between focal length and depth of field helps photographers achieve desired aesthetic effects.

Story 3: A professional photographer explains the ideal distance between the camera and subject when using an 85mm lens, ensuring sharp focus and flattering perspectives.

Learning: Technical knowledge empowers photographers to optimize their camera settings and maximize image quality.

Tips and Tricks

• Consider the crop factor of your camera when converting mm to inches. A crop factor of 1.5 or 2 will result in a narrower angle of view and a shorter effective focal length.
• Utilize a depth of field calculator to determine the appropriate aperture setting for the desired depth of field effect.
• Practice using different focal lengths to understand how they impact image composition and perspective control.

Step-by-Step Approach to Converting 85mm to Inches

1. Multiply 85mm by the conversion factor 0.0393701.
2. Calculate the result in inches, which in this case is 3.346 inches.

Call to Action

Embrace the knowledge of 85mm to inches conversion to enhance your photography. Experiment with different focal lengths to unlock creative possibilities and capture stunning images. As you delve deeper into the art of photography, continuous learning and practice will guide you towards mastery.