Watch our YouTube video for a more in-depth explanation, including real example comparisons: Quick Guide to Focal Length & Distortion
Why focal length matters more than you think
Focal length doesn’t just change how “zoomed in” your image looks. It directly affects how your subject is rendered, especially in portraits. The biggest factor here is distortion.
Understanding this, will help you:
Choose the right lens for the job
- Avoid unflattering results
- Use distortion creatively when needed
What is focal distortion?
Focal distortion is how a lens alters perspective, especially when you’re close to your subject.
In simple terms:
- Wider lenses (15-24mm) exaggerate features
- Longer lenses (50mm+) compress and flatten features
This is why the same subject can look completely different depending on the lens you use.
Real-world breakdown
1. Ultra-Wide (15-24mm)
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| 15mm | 20mm | 24mm |
Use for: Landscapes, architecture and environmental shots
- Strong distortion when close to your subject
- Facial features appear stretched (larger nose, wider face)
- Background looks expanded and more visible
Verdict: Not ideal for portraits unless you’re going for a stylised look.
2. Wide (35mm)
Use for: Environmental portraits and storytelling
- Still has distortion, especially up close
- Works well when you step back
- Keeps context in the frame (subject and surroundings)
Key tip: Stand at least 1-1.5 metres away to reduce distortion.
3. Standard to Telephoto (50-135mm+)
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| 50mm | 100mm | 182mm |
Use for: Portraits, weddings and compression shots
- Minimal distortion
- More natural facial proportions
- Background compression creates separation
Why it works: This is closer to how we naturally see people.
Distance changes everything
Here’s what most people miss:
It’s not just the lens; it’s your distance from the subject.
- Close + wide lens = heavy distortion
- Far + zoomed in = natural look
That’s why a 35mm can still work for portraits, if you step back.
What about smartphones?
This applies directly to mobile photography too.
Most phones now have:
- Ultra-wide
- Wide (main lens)
- Telephoto
When to use distortion creatively
Use it when you want:
- Dramatic perspective
- Strong leading lines
- Exaggerated features for effect
This works well in:
- Street photography
- Creative portraits
- Action or sports content
If you’re shooting:
Portraits
Environmental portraits
- Use 35mm
- Keep some distance
Landscapes / architecture
- Use 15-24mm
- Avoid placing people too close to the lens
If your portraits don’t look right, it’s usually not your camera, it could either be your focal length or your distance to the subject.
Get those two right, and your images improve immediately.
