Angle of View USA - Photography Terms & Glossary

Glossary Of Photography Terms [1]

Angle of View The angle of view in photography refers to the extent of the scene captured by the camera lens, expressed in degrees or as a diagonal, horizontal, or vertical measurement. Determined by the focal length of the lens and the size of the camera sensor, the angle of view dictates the spatial relationship between objects within the frame and influences the perceived perspective, depth, and composition of the photograph. Wide-angle lenses have a broader angle of view, allowing photographers to capture expansive landscapes, architectural structures, or group portraits with greater depth and context.
In contrast, telephoto lenses offer a narrower angle of view, enabling photographers to isolate distant subjects and compress the perspective, emphasizing details and minimizing distractions within the frame. By selecting lenses with different focal lengths and understanding their corresponding angles of view, photographers can effectively control the visual dynamics and narrative impact of their images, crafting compositions that resonate with depth, drama, and visual intrigue.