The possibilities of a Wide Angle lens are many and, although it is not an easy lens to use, its results make the effort and practice worthwhile (oh and the economic effort, because they are not cheap π )
Perhaps you are one of those who think that it is a goal for landscape lovers and that this is not for you. It is true, it is the classic βmust haveβ lens for any landscape lover, but it is that and much more. Do you enjoy Documentary photography, Street Photography or architectural or artistic photography, for example? Then join the list of those of us who dream of a good Wide Angle, we are not few π
In addition, if you are one of those who bought the camera with its standard or kit lens, it is possible that you already have a Wide Angle or Wide Angle lens among your photographic material. It may not be the best in the world, but it will help you practice, get to know it and get the most out of it.
What am I still not convincing you? Well, I leave you with a small gallery of images that you can take with a Wide Angle, enjoy them π
1. A classic of landscapes
Not surprisingly, this is the classic lens for photographing landscapes thanks to its wide angle that allows you to cover more landscape, its sharpness and its depth of field.
A landscape classic
2. Loved and hated distortion
One of the characteristics of Wide Angle lenses is the distortion they cause in the image due to the viewing angle.
3. Architectural elements
How many times have you found yourself in front of a building, you have started to take a few steps back so that it fits in the frame, a few more, and even more, and finally you have run into the wall realizing that no, that it does not fit completely in the frame? your viewfinder…? With a Wide Angle in your backpack, this will not happen to you π
Photography of architectural elements
4. Lines, converging lines and leaks
Another of the effects that the Wide Angle enhances are the lines that converge towards a point (leakage), what we call converging lines. If we combine it with somewhat high-angle or low-angle points of view, the effect is surprising.
5. Lines and architecture
To take advantage of the characteristics that the Wide Angle provides us, the best thing is to know them and know how to combine them with each other.
Lines, vanishing points and architecture
6. Combine different planes
Thanks to the depth of field and its wide viewing angle, the Wide Angle allows you to include several plans in the image. To make images more interesting, it is common to include a center of interest in close-ups of the composition. Otherwise, the gaze runs the risk of getting lost in the frame without finding anything interesting.
Plans and center of interest
7. Documentary photography
Wide Angle photography allows us to work on different planes, making them appear focused and integrated into the image. This type of lens allows us to photograph protagonists without losing the environment, which is why it is widely used in this type of image.
Wide Angle and Documentary Photography
8. Different portraits
It is not the classic lens for portraits nor does it pretend to be, but you cannot miss the opportunity to take one with this lens to check the effects of the distortion it produces at short distances π
different portraits
9. Vary the point of view
You should apply this rule with any lens, but with a Wide Angle you can’t miss the opportunity.
Vary the point of view
10. In Portrait format
Do not forget to vary the format of your compositions. Not everything is horizontal, and the vertical format and the Wide Angle, can give you great images.
not everything is horizontal
11. Depth of field
A good depth of field (focused area in the image) is another advantage of Wide Angle photography, ideal for landscapes or for any other scenario where you want to use your lens.
Wide angle photography and depth of field
12. Interesting compositions
Do not forget to always look for compositions that highlight the center of interest.
interesting compositions
13.Street photography
Another scenario where you will take advantage of your Wide Angle is in street photography.
streetphotography
14. Different and original perspectives
different perspectives
15. No Filters
Above all, the polarizer can create effects such as vignetting in the images.
Try to avoid polarizer
The Wide Angle is a great lens that can accompany you in many situations, and once you learn to take advantage of it, it will seem like an essential companion, one of those that you rarely want to leave at home π
I hope it has served as inspiration for your next great Wide Angle photographs. If so, please share it with someone else you think might be interested. And as always, thank you!