ISSUE 126
12 / ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Building a narrative Every picture tells a story, but the best way to get that story across is with intentional choices – and that extends to your lens selection
What makes a great image? Light? Timing? Composition? In truth, they all matter, and photographers often go to great lengths to ensure each of these things is perfect before they press the shutter. But there is an additional element, less frequently considered but still vital to how a story is told: focal length. The chosen lens not only influences what appears in the frame, but how a viewer experiences the space, distance and emotion of an image. Many photographers have a go-to lens. Which one that is will depend on what they are photographing and the story they want to tell. Documentary photographers often choose a modest wide-angle lens that can include both subject and surroundings to give an image context, while a wedding or portrait photographer may opt for a short telephoto to give their imagery intimacy. Fujifilm has a lens to suit all creative needs, whether using the compact X Series or chasing ultimate quality with the GFX System. In both instances, you’ll get access to its legendary Film Simulation modes that add a unique element to your storytelling.
But if you’re still searching for your creative voice, let’s dive into the main lens types and help you make decisions that will create even more memorable images. Wide-angle lenses: for context and presence Wide focal lengths – like 16mm in the X Series – place emphasis on environment as much as subject. Foreground elements appear pronounced, depth is exaggerated and viewers gain a strong sense of standing within the scene itself. This approach suits travel photography and documentary work particularly well. A market scene, coastal landscape or street portrait gains narrative depth as the surroundings remain integral to the moment. These lenses communicate both subject and atmosphere at once. Recommended wide-angle lenses: • X Series: XF16mmF1.4 R WR, XF18mmF1.4 R LM WR, XF10-24mmF4 R OIS WR • G FX System: GF23mmF4 R LM WR, GF30mmF3.5 R WR, GF20-35mmF4 R WR
FROM AFAR A zoom such as the XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR is great for revealing unseen beauty (right)
Powered by FlippingBook