Let's talk about wide shots vs longer, telephoto shots, why I switch lenses/focal lengths, and how those focal lengths feel in the end result.
At this wedding, I was shooting both 24mm and 85mm. Yes, one is more zoomed in than the other. But when we understand how they handle field of view and perspective, and how that relates to the viewing experience, we can become a more empowered artist by creating with intention. Experiment with the tips that resonate with you. Ditch the tips you think suck. Let’s break it down using the two compositions, standing in the same exact spot:
24mm Lens (Wide-Angle Perspective)
Field of View: The 24mm lens captures a much wider view the scene, pulling in the huge church architecture. You see the high ceilings, chandeliers, and the long red carpet leading up to the altar, placing the couple within the vast space.
Effect on Perspective: The wide angle exaggerates the distance between foreground and background. This creates a sense of scale, emphasizing how big the venue is and its significance in the ceremony. The aisle and pews act as leading lines, guiding the viewer’s eyes to the couple at the altar.
Storytelling Impact: The 24mm lens tells the “context” of the story. It anchors the viewer, showing the couple as a part of something bigger—this moment isn’t just about them, but the family, the ceremony, and the setting itself.
85mm Lens (Telephoto Perspective)
Field of View: The 85mm lens narrows the focus to the couple and altar, excluding much of the environment. You still see some architectural details, but they’re less prominent, serving as a backdrop rather than the main subject.
Effect on Perspective: The telephoto lens compresses the distance between elements, making the couple feel more connected to their surroundings. The altar and decor appear closer to them, creating a sense of intimacy and focus.
Storytelling Impact: The 85mm lens tells the “emotion” of the story. It isolates the couple, placing the emphasis on their connection, the sacred element of the vows, and the emotional gravity of the moment.
How These Lenses Work Together in Storytelling:
Wide to Establish, Telephoto to Connect: The 24mm wide shot establishes the scene, setting the stage and conveying the large scale of the venue. The 85mm close-up then draws the viewer into the emotional core, focusing on the couple and their significance in the setting.
Complementary Perspectives: The wide lens shows the “big picture” of the ceremony, while the telephoto lens zooms in to reveal the heart of the story. Together, they create a narrative arc: what's happening, where it’s happening, and why it matters.
Balancing Context and Intimacy: Using both lenses allows you to strike a balance between storytelling layers. The 24mm lens shows the context of their story—the grand church, the gathered guests, and the ceremony’s structure. The 85mm lens adds the depth of their emotional journey, bringing the story full circle.
When we experiment with the interplay between field of view and perspective, we can give our storytelling more dimension. Use wide lenses to immerse your view in the “where” and telephoto lenses to focus on the “who” and “why.” Together, they shape your narrative, making it rich and compelling to view.
This is also why my first recommendation for most wedding photographers is to have 24-70 and 70-200 before filling out tons of primes.
Anyways, just some tidbits on storytelling and photography. Hope this helped!
Gear Used:
1/200, f/2.8, ISO 1000
Natural Light
Edited in Lightroom Classic using JY POP Signature Presets
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