A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding 85mm in Inches: From Photography to Printing

Introduction

In the realm of photography and printing, the term "85mm" holds significance. This guide will provide a comprehensive understanding of what 85mm in inches represents, its applications, and how it relates to other measurements.

What is 85mm in Inches?

85mm (millimeters) is equivalent to 3.346 inches. In simpler terms, it measures approximately 3.35 inches or the length of your index finger from the tip to the first knuckle. This measurement is often used in photography and printing to describe the focal length of lenses and the size of images, respectively.

Applications of 85mm

• Photography: 85mm lenses are commonly used in portrait and street photography. Their versatility allows for flattering portraits with a narrow depth of field and capturing candid shots from a comfortable distance.

• Printing: In printing, 85mm is used to measure the width of paper. Standard paper sizes, such as A4 and letter-sized paper, have an 85mm width.

Conversions and Relationships

• Conversion to Other Units:
• 85mm = 3.346 inches

• 85mm = 8.5 centimeters

• Relationship to Focal Length:

• In photography, 85mm is considered a medium-telephoto lens. It provides a narrower field of view compared to wide-angle lenses but a wider perspective than telephoto lenses.

Table: Common Lens Focal Lengths and Their Uses

Table: Standard Paper Sizes and Their Widths in 85mm

Effective Strategies for Using 85mm

• Photography:
• Use an 85mm lens for sharp, flattering portraits.
• Shoot wide open for a shallow depth of field that isolates your subject.

• Capture street scenes from a discreet distance.

• Printing:

• Choose 85mm wide paper for standard business documents and presentations.
• Create flyers, brochures, and other marketing materials using 85mm paper.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Photography:
• Don't stand too close to your subject when using an 85mm lens. This can lead to distortion.
• Avoid using an 85mm lens in low-light conditions without a flash.

• Don't confuse 85mm with 50mm lenses, which have a wider angle of view.

• Printing:

• Don't print documents on paper that's wider than 85mm, as it won't fit in standard printers.
• Ensure that your printer is configured to print on 85mm paper before starting a job.

Pros and Cons of 85mm

Pros:

• Ideal for portrait and street photography
• Creates a flattering perspective
• Versatile for different applications

Cons:

• Requires more light than wide-angle lenses
• Can be expensive compared to other lenses
• Not suitable for extreme close-ups or wide-angle shots

FAQs

1. What is the difference between an 85mm lens and a 50mm lens?
   - 85mm lenses have a narrower angle of view and a longer focal length than 50mm lenses.

2. Can I use an 85mm lens for landscape photography?
   - While it's possible, an 85mm lens may not be the ideal choice for landscape photography due to its narrow field of view.

3. What size paper do I need for 85mm printing?
   - You'll need paper that is 85mm wide, such as A4 or letter-sized paper.

4. How do I convert 85mm to inches?
   - 85mm is equivalent to 3.346 inches.

5. Is an 85mm lens good for beginners?
   - Yes, 85mm lenses can be suitable for beginners who want to explore portrait and street photography.

6. What are some tips for using an 85mm lens in photography?
   - Experiment with different apertures to control depth of field.
   - Capture your subject from a comfortable distance.
   - Practice framing and composition to create impactful images.

Conclusion

Understanding 85mm in inches is essential for photographers, printers, and anyone working with measurements. By familiarizing yourself with its applications, conversions, and effective strategies, you can harness the power of this versatile measurement in your work. Remember to consider the pros and cons of using 85mm and avoid common pitfalls to maximize its utility.