How does the focal length of a lens affect composition?

The focal length of a lens significantly influences composition by determining how much of a scene is captured and the perspective distortion that occurs in an image. A longer focal length, such as that found in a telephoto lens, will narrow the field of view, allowing the photographer to isolate subjects and compress space, which can create a flatter perspective. This is ideal for portraits or distant subjects.

Conversely, a shorter focal length, typical of wide-angle lenses, captures a broader scene, enabling more of the environment to be included in the frame. This expands a sense of depth and can provide more dramatic perspective. Wide-angle lenses can create perspective distortion, making closer objects appear larger and more prominent compared to objects further away, which can add a unique compositional effect.

Thus, the choice of focal length shapes the overall visual narrative of the photograph by both controlling what is visible and manipulating how that visible world is perceived. Understanding how focal length works aids photographers in making deliberate compositional choices that align with their artistic vision.