Understanding focal length: try it yourself

1. Focal Length Chart

At 24mm, 50mm, 85mm (or phone equivalents); photograph same subject.

2. Perspective Test

Shoot hallway with wide (exaggerated depth) vs. tele (compressed).

3. Portrait Focal Length

Find most flattering focal length for faces (usually 50-85mm equiv).

4. Distortion Check

Photograph grid (e.g., tiles) at wide vs. normal focal lengths.

5. Focal Length Memory

Assign emotions to lengths (e.g., wide = dramatic, tele = intimate).