Finding the Perfect Focus: What MM Lens to Use for Product Photography

Product photography is a crucial aspect of marketing and advertising. It's the visual representation of your product that can make or break a sale. Therefore, it's essential to capture your product in the best light and from the best angle. One of the key factors that contribute to the quality of product photography is the lens you use.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of lenses and help you understand which millimeter (mm) lens is perfect for your product photography.

Understanding Focal Length

Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to understand what focal length means. The focal length of a lens, measured in millimeters (mm), is the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is in focus. It determines how much of the scene will be captured and how large individual elements will be within that scene.

Wide-Angle Lenses (24mm - 35mm)

Wide-angle lenses have a short focal length and provide a broad view of the scene. They are great for capturing the entire product in one shot, especially if it's large or if you're shooting in a confined space. However, wide-angle lenses can distort the image, making the product appear larger or smaller than it actually is. This distortion can be used creatively, but it's not always ideal for product photography where accuracy is key.

Standard Lenses (50mm - 85mm)

Standard lenses, also known as "normal" lenses, have a focal length roughly equivalent to the human eye's field of view. This means they produce images that look natural and realistic to us. A 50mm lens is often referred to as a "nifty fifty" due to its versatility. It's great for shooting a variety of products, from small items like jewelry to larger items like furniture.

An 85mm lens, on the other hand, is perfect for close-ups and detail shots. It allows you to get close to the product without physically moving closer, which can be useful when shooting delicate or intricate items.

Telephoto Lenses (100mm - 200mm)

Telephoto lenses have a long focal length and can capture a narrow view of the scene. They are great for isolating the product from its surroundings and creating a shallow depth of field, which can make the product stand out. However, telephoto lenses can be bulky and expensive, and they require a good amount of space to use effectively.

Macro Lenses

Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography. They can capture tiny details that would be missed by other lenses, making them perfect for photographing small products or intricate details of larger products. Macro lenses come in a variety of focal lengths, but a 100mm macro lens is a popular choice for product photography.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lens for product photography depends on the size of the product, the space you have available, and the type of image you want to create. A 50mm or 85mm lens is a good starting point for most product photography, but a wide-angle, telephoto, or macro lens may be necessary for certain situations.

Remember, the lens is just one tool in your photography kit. Good lighting, composition, and post-processing are also crucial for creating high-quality product images. Happy shooting!