Are You Using Your Zoom Lens In The Wrong Way?

Are You Using Your Zoom Lenses Wrong? Here is a Guide to More Purposeful Photography and understanding why you might be using your zoom lens in the wrong way. Of course, there are times when some of this does not apply, such as for wildlife, however, for most other things, you have to ask yourself… Are you using your zoom lens in the wrong way?

The zoom lens is a marvel of photographic engineering. With a simple twist, you can go from a wide-angle landscape to a tightly framed portrait without taking a single step. For many photographers, especially beginners, it’s the ultimate tool for convenience. But this convenience can also lead to a bad habit: using the zoom ring as a crutch instead of a creative tool.

If your primary method of composition is to “stand still and zoom,” you might be missing out on a world of creative possibilities. Let’s delve into why you might be using your zoom lens “wrong” and how to unlock its full potential.

The Numbers on Your Lens: More Than Just a Guide

Take a look at your zoom lens. You’ll see a series of numbers, such as 24-70mm, 70-200mm, or 18-55mm. These aren’t just arbitrary markers; they represent the focal length of your lens.

• Focal Length (mm): This number describes the angle of view and magnification.

• Lower numbers (e.g., 16mm, 24mm): These are wide-angle focal lengths. They capture a broad scene, making objects appear smaller and farther away. They are excellent for landscapes, architecture, and capturing a sense of space.

• Medium numbers (e.g., 35mm, 50mm): These are considered “normal” focal lengths. They closely mimic the perspective of the human eye, offering a natural and classic look.

• Higher numbers (e.g., 85mm, 200mm): These are telephoto focal lengths. They magnify the subject, making it appear closer and compressing the background. They are ideal for portraits, wildlife, and sports photography.

Understanding these numbers is the first step toward using your zoom lens with intention. It’s about knowing what each focal length does to your image, rather than just “getting closer.”

The “Zoom and Stay” Trap

When you’re starting out, it’s natural to find a comfortable spot and simply zoom in or out to frame your shot. While this is efficient, it often results in images that lack a strong sense of composition and perspective.

The key to better photography is understanding that changing your focal length changes the perspective of the scene, while changing your physical position changes the relationship between elements in your scene.

Consider a simple scenario: you are taking a photo of a person with a distant mountain in the background.

• Scenario A: Stand still and zoom in. You use a wide-angle focal length (e.g., 24mm) and then zoom in to a telephoto length (e.g., 70mm) to get a tighter shot of the person. By doing this, you’ve compressed the background. The mountain will appear larger and closer to your subject, almost like a backdrop.

• Scenario B: Set your focal length and move. You decide you want to use a natural, 50mm focal length. To get the same composition as the zoomed-in shot, you physically move closer to your subject. The result? The relationship between the person and the mountain changes completely. The mountain will appear smaller and farther away, giving a stronger sense of depth and separation.

This difference in perspective is a crucial concept in photography. It’s what separates a snapshot from a carefully crafted image. By moving your body, you can control the size of your subject relative to the background, and how elements in the frame interact with each other.

The Better Way: Set a Focal Length, Then Move Your Feet

Here’s a more deliberate and rewarding approach to using your zoom lens:

• Choose Your Focal Length: Before you even raise the camera to your eye, think about the story you want to tell. Do you want to capture the vastness of the landscape (wide-angle)? Is your goal to create an intimate portrait with a blurred background (telephoto)? Or do you want a natural perspective (normal)? Set your zoom ring to the focal length that best suits your vision.

• Move Your Body: Once you’ve set your focal length, use your feet to compose the shot. Move closer to your subject to fill the frame or step back to include more of the surroundings. This simple act forces you to become more aware of your environment and the elements within your composition. You’ll start noticing leading lines, interesting foregrounds, and how different angles affect the final image.

• Refine and Repeat: Don’t be afraid to experiment. After taking a shot at one focal length, try a different one and see how it changes the perspective. This practice will build your photographic intuition and teach you the unique language of each focal length.

The Conclusion: Zoom Lenses Are for Creativity, Not Laziness

A zoom lens is a powerful tool, but its power lies in the creative options it provides, not just the convenience. By understanding the numbers on your lens and making a conscious decision to “zoom with your feet,” you’ll move from a passive observer to an active creator. Your photos will have a stronger sense of purpose, a more dynamic perspective, and a story that goes beyond simply getting the subject in the frame.

So, the next time you pick up your camera, challenge yourself. Set a focal length, take a few steps, and watch your photography transform.