What is a telephoto lens primarily used for?

A telephoto lens is primarily used for capturing distant subjects due to its long focal length, which allows photographers to zoom in on subjects that are far away without losing detail. This makes it especially useful for wildlife photography, sports, and events where getting physically close to the subject is challenging or impractical.

The unique design of a telephoto lens compresses the distance between objects in the frame, creating a flattering perspective that makes it easier to isolate the subject from the background. This ability to narrow the field of view means that photographers can capture detailed images of subjects, such as animals in their natural habitat or athletes during a game, as if they were much closer.

In contrast, wide-angle landscapes require a lens that captures a broad view, which is the opposite of what a telephoto lens does. Close-up details would typically be captured with a macro lens instead, as it is specialized for small subjects. Indoor scenes can be photographed effectively with various lenses, but a telephoto lens might not be the best choice because a shorter focal length is generally more practical in confined spaces.