BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Camera Lenses

Photography Question 

Brandon Currey
 

28mm Lens Vs. 18mm Lens


I currently have a 28-80mm lens. I'd like to get something that is a little wider for landscape pictures. I don't want a fisheye lens, because I just don't like the looks of them. I'm looking at a lens that is an 18-50mm. Is there going to be much of a difference in this lens at 18mm than my current lens at 28mm? What do you all use for landscape shots? Thanks!!


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April 17, 2006

 

BetterPhoto Member
 
 
 
Hi Brandon;
I don't know if you shoot digital or film, but I've got a 19-35mm Vivitar Series-1 zoom for my Minolta X700 that is great for landscapes. It was purchased off ebay for $40.00, plus $5.50 shipping. Have fun and keep shooting...


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April 17, 2006

 

robert G. Fately
  Hi, Brandon,
Short answer - yes, there is a big difference beteen a 28MM and 18MM lens. While 10MM is not much on the telephoto end, in wide angles it is pretty sizeable.
Although the 28MM focal length is considered a normal wide angle lens, the 18MM length is a so-called "ultra-wide", and you will immediately see how much more scene you can take it from a given location. Another interesting effect is the perspective distortion you can achieve - that is, by putting something in the near foreground it will really look exaggerated in size.
Ultra wides can be a lot of fun - good luck with it!


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April 17, 2006

 

Steve M. Sieren
  Hey Brandon, I shoot mostly landscapes and I couldn't live without the 18mm focal length. I prefer a lens that can get very close to my foreground. I would like to try a wider lens but the majority of my shooting has not required a wider angle than 18mm. The 18mm on most digital cameras is equivalent to a 28mm focal length on a 35mm film camera or new digital cameras with a larger sensor.


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April 18, 2006

 

Jim Gerkin
  Brandon is right on! a 28 on most digital cameras acts like a 35 and therefore not much of a wide angle. My 18 is GREAT! Plenty widw and used alot.


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April 18, 2006

 
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