Understanding the Conversion from 85mm to Inches: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In the realm of photography, knowing the precise dimensions of lenses is crucial for capturing the desired shots. Understanding the conversion between millimeters (mm) and inches is essential for photographers who wish to navigate the technical aspects of their craft. This article delves into the intricacies of converting 85mm to inches, exploring its significance, providing practical tables, and offering valuable strategies, tips, and benefits for photographers.

Significance of Lens Dimensions

The focal length of a camera lens, often measured in millimeters, determines its field of view and the size of the objects it captures. For portrait photographers, an 85mm lens is often the preferred choice due to its ability to produce flattering perspectives and shallow depth of field.

Conversion Calculation

To convert 85mm to inches, the following formula is used:

85mm x 0.0393701 = 3.34646 inches

Therefore, 85mm is equivalent to approximately 3.35 inches.

Useful Conversion Tables

For quick reference, the following tables provide conversions for common lens focal lengths:

Table 1: Common Lens Focal Lengths in Millimeters and Inches

Table 2: 85mm Lens Focal Length in Various Units

Effective Strategies for Converting 85mm to Inches

1. Use a Conversion Calculator: Utilize online or mobile calculators specifically designed for converting millimeters to inches.

2. Memorize the Conversion Factor: Remember the factor of 0.0393701, which can be easily recalled as "39 divided by 1000."

3. Practice Regular Conversions: Engage in regular practice to enhance your mental calculations and speed.

Tips and Tricks for Accurate Conversions

1. Round to the Nearest Inch: For practical applications, rounding the conversion result to the nearest inch is often sufficient.

2. Consider Decimal Accuracy: When precision is required, retain the decimal figures for precise measurements.

3. Use Measurement Tools: Physical tools like rulers or measuring tapes can provide a more tangible understanding of the converted length.

Benefits of Understanding 85mm to Inches Conversion

1. Accurate Lens Selection: Knowing the exact dimensions of an 85mm lens in inches enables photographers to select the appropriate lens for their desired camera and shooting conditions.

2. Precise Camera Settings: A clear understanding of lens dimensions facilitates accurate camera settings, such as aperture and shutter speed, to optimize image quality.

Pros and Cons of 85mm Lenses

Pros:

• Flattering Perspective: Renders subjects with a pleasing and natural-looking perspective.
• Shallow Depth of Field: Creates a visually appealing background blur, isolating the subject.
• Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of photographic genres, including portraits, headshots, and events.

Cons:

• Fixed Focal Length: Does not allow for zooming or adjusting the field of view.
• Pricier: Typically more expensive compared to zoom lenses.

Case Studies: Applications of 85mm Lenses

1. Portrait Photography: 85mm lenses are commonly used to capture stunning portraits, as they produce images with a flattering perspective and shallow depth of field, focusing the viewer's attention on the subject.

2. Event Photography: 85mm lenses are also employed in event photography, allowing photographers to discreetly capture candid moments while maintaining a comfortable distance from subjects.

3. Fashion Photography: The shallow depth of field produced by an 85mm lens is ideal for fashion photography, as it highlights clothing details and creates a visually appealing separation between the subject and the background.

Conclusion

Understanding the conversion from 85mm to inches is essential for photographers to navigate the technical aspects of their craft effectively. By using the strategies, tips, and tricks outlined in this article, photographers can accurately convert lens dimensions, optimize camera settings, and achieve superior image quality in various photographic genres. Embracing the benefits of an 85mm lens, photographers can capture flattering portraits, document events with precision, and enhance their photographic repertoire.