SUMMARY

Mike Chudley advocates for the 28mm focal length in street photography over the more common 35mm, asserting that it offers a more truthful perspective. While 35mm is versatile, Chudley finds 28mm captures candid moments with greater authenticity, incorporating elements like hands or extra objects that add to the narrative without distorting reality. He uses examples from his work to illustrate how the wider field of view allows for more interesting compositions and the ability to crop in post-production, a flexibility not available with a tighter 35mm lens. Chudley also suggests that committing to a single focal length for an extended period helps photographers develop an intuitive understanding of composition and timing.

TAKEAWAYS

28mm lens is argued to be more truthful for street photography than 35mm.

Wider 28mm captures candid moments and details without distortion.

The ability to crop a 28mm image in post offers more flexibility than a 35mm.

Committing to one focal length helps develop intuitive shooting skills.

RELATED COVERAGE

LensDigest archive

Browse by date

Every published day shows its story count. Select a date to open that edition.

Archive calendar

Loading available editions…