It's important to mention that a 35mm lens on a aps-c camera like the ones people buy the most ( Nikon d3300, Canon t5i, sony a6000) will be equal to roughly 55 mm. The 50mm will equal to roughly 78 mm. What this means is that if you have one of these cameras, you will not get the look that you see in his video because he has a full frame camera. You will roughly get the look of his 50mm lens with a 35mm lens but your 50mm will become more of a telephoto lens. This means that you wont be able to get a wide view of the scene. It will be zoomed in all the time. I write this because I didn't know that before and I always thought that my 50mm on my nikon d3300 was giving me the focal lenght of what the eyes can see but it turns out it was my 35mm who would give me the best representation. Hope that helps someone and great video dude!
For portraits I would recommend the 50mm. You get an easier nice background blur effect and the faces will appear more natural. But for events it will be very difficult to get wide shots with it. The 35mm is better for wider shots. So if you do more portraits-->50 mm. If you do more event--> 35mm. The best thing to do is to go to your local camera store and try them to see which you like the most. Hope that helps ;)
If you honestly don't know at the beginning, I don't think you could go wrong getting some version of a fast standard zoom. For canon aps-C I would recommend something like the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8. After using a decent lens like that, you start to realize which end of the spectrum you gravitate to (ie do you like your 17mm photos more or less than your 50mm photos). On the other hand if you need a walkaround lens or an event lens (like at a wedding, where you may miss shots if swapping lenses, and cannot "zoom with your feet" in certain situations) then a fast standard zoom will likely serve you much better than one fixed lens. I personally use a manual focus 50mm 1.4 old legacy Minolta MD Rokkor lens I got off ebay for $40 on a fuji XT1 and I absolutely love the perspective (it is about a 75mm FOV FF equivalent). But it took me ten tries with different lenses to figure it out!!
I am watching this video today that you made four years ago, and it is a timeless video. The topic applies today and for generations to come. I love your 35mm family photos, great composition and context for you to look at and remember in years to come.
I hadn't even thought on consistency before this. In the age of social media and scrolling through your Instagram images or portfolio, having that consistence is a benefit indeed.
The general (though not universal) thrust I got from the pictures is that 35mm puts the subject in a broader context more easily; 50mm is there for when the context/background isn't so important and the subject comes to the fore.
Great video, I always find it interesting that people struggle to figure out what mm lens to use. When I started out I was told by a pretty seasoned professional to buy a lens anywhere between 30mm and 50mm and then just move myself accordingly, it will make me a better photographer. Example: If I shoot with my 50mm and want to fill the frame more I move closer and vice versa. Obviously you can't always do that as fixed objects tend not to move out of your way easily but I have never really had an issue. Actually, some of my best shots have been because and object was in my way and I had to take the shot from a different angle that I didn't initially consider.
35mm has been my staple lens every since I discovered the X100s 3 years ago. It has ultimately changed my approach to photography and I no longer use zoom lenses. For myself, I'm also happy with only the 35mm (environmental portraits and documentary) and a 50mm (more intimate moments and portraits). I only use an 85mm for professional portraits where the compression is needed. If you were to give me one lens for the rest of my life, I wouldn't hesitate in saying 35mm!
I think the X100 series was a gamechanger for a lot of people in terms of that focal length, myself included! When the original X100 came out, that was the first time I shot with that focal length on a daily basis.
Absolutely. I have the X100F and the 35mm FOV is just perfect for family and life around the home photos. 28mm fels a bit to wide for me, and 50mm feels too tight.
Stumbled onto your video and found it very informative. However, what I appreciated most is the high quality images you included. Wow! Those are some of the most gorgeous, yet simple and natural, b+w images I've seen in a long time!! Excellent work!!
I travelled through Japan with only the Fuji 23mm f2, it nearly did everything I needed, there may have been one two times I could have used a 24mm equivalent but for the most part it is the jack of all trades.
All your videos are brilliant. Your style and presentation and personality make these THE most watchable and enjoyable I have seen in years. I can’t thank you enough for producing and sharing such great content. You have a gift.
The best video I have ever watched showing the difference between both lenses!! Your photographs are awesome!! Fell in love with the music too!! Greetings from a Mexican residing in Canada!!
Really like the direction your channel is taking, gear reviews are fun but I find vids about creative choices when making pictures are where its at for me
Whenever I want to see some good photographs and really enjoy watching them with good music I play this video. Is it just me? Really love your work @matt
I always felt like 50mm on a FF is just what I see with my eyes. That's why I rather prefer 35mm because I always want a wider angle and show more. However, 50mm is also great because, as you said, it compresses things and makes the photo more focused on one object. I used a 50 to shoot Xmas last year and it turned out great, didn't feel like I missed anything in the frames and since I've been using the Nifty Fifty, they came out beautiful :)
The photos really showed exactly how both lenses have their place. The photos, for me, were superb. It was a pleasure to see them & feel inspired. You have a new subscriber.
First, you’re incredibly talented, especially when taking “apparently” casual shots. Apparently because when I look at the attributes - lighting, timing, focus, composition) - nobody could be nailing all these difficult aspects just haphazardly. I’m sure you’ve trained yourself so much of the effort is subconscious, but the results show tremendous effort. The pic of your wife with a halo of your reflection, your child with hair covering half her face with just an eye - in focus - poking out with so much life. I, for one, would like to see more videos on composition and lighting, especially of people. Thanks.
After watching thousands of RUclips videos, this is one of the best! Wonderful photos. Definitely see the 50mm for isolation and 35mm for context. But, both look like they belong together.
One of the key points you make that I'd articulate yet another way is to think about focal length in terms of what else you include when you keep the "subject" the same size in frame. Focal length then forces you to think about not only what you include, but how big those things are to one another, which is clearly vital to composition of an image (as opposed to vital to photography).
Matt Day That is true. I need to stop telling myself "I should have brought that one instead of this one" and just shoot with what I have. I think we all get caught up in gear sometimes.
Currently, my dilemma right now. I like both but can only get one right now. Ugh its frustrating I like the depth of the 50mm but the 35 is a bit cheaper.
I prefer 50mm. I get less lines intruding on my compositions, and it’s as much of a portrait lens as I need it to be in tighter quarters. Getting a wider view is just a matter of stepping back. I save 28mm for country landscapes 😊
Matt, what a great video to watch. This is valuable information for many amateur shooters. But in fact I was blown away by the last image of you and Molly at 11:52. What a great double portrait. Beautifully composed and you can really feel the love. As a professional myself, I recognize these once-in-a-million shots. By the way, the image at 11:22 is another beauty. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks. Very useful video. I'd been considering getting a 35mm for my Pentax Spotmatic but, looking at those photographs at the end, I realise the 50mm suits my style so much better. I guess that's why the 35mm 1.4 hardly ever leaves my X-Pro2 (roughly 50mm equivalent on the crop sensor).
I really enjoyed seeing your photos - wonderful composition and an eye for good light. I receive my first Leica next week - an M11 with the 50mm Summilux-M 1.4 ASPH. I am really looking forward to this new type of shooting experience.
One of the best things about 50mm on the M is the great amount of space around the frame lines. I never would have thought how amazing that is until I got the 262. Seeing what is just outside allows me to anticipate and compose much more freely.
Thanks Matt. I bought Fuji 35mm lens (50mm ff equiv) as my first prime - a bit tight for me at first but it grows on me. I just picked pick up Fuji 23mm (35mm ff equiv) and yes it is more versatile. Overall, 50mm (ff) is better to isolate a subject and portrait. 35mm (ff) is versatile and good at storytelling. Great to have both prime lens in our arsenal :)
Thank you. It helped me decide on the 35mm. Especially the samples you provided as that is the style of shots I would be taking of our kids. We already have a zoom lens that can cover for the 50mm and above.
Both are far more seductive when viewed through an SLR,especially the 35,RF cameras and frame lines are fine and the much vaunted Leicas are fabulous instruments, but through the lens viewing with a fine SLR is incomparable.
We I started photography I love zoom lenses but over time I fell in love with primes because I love fast glass. I love both the 35 and 50 and often struggled to decide which to carry. My rule now is if I’m on vacation or street photography then it’s my 35mm 1.4 but if I’m going home for the holidays or places like weddings where most of the pictures will be portraits then it’s my 50mm 1.2. Love the video and your photos 👊
Oh my, this is such a good video. Thank you a lot for this! Also ... You have a great family, man. Your kids will absolutely love those photos when they grow up.
Thanks for this video Matt! I was kind of stuck on exactly this. Loved your 35mm series and how you compose on that length. Funny how just by looking at your pics I seemed to got all the clarifying I needed.
One of your best videos to date. A question that I still contemplate after 25 years of shooting. The only 2 lenses I own for my M system. Your style is most excellent!!!
i only use 35 and 50 too... i bought them as my "starter" lenses and thought the reason i hadn't added more to my arsenal was because of procrastination but after watching this video i realize the real reason is that the 35 and 50 capture all that i'm most interested in. I like your pics and like your voice too man. Thanks for the vid.
I use a 35 but I'm saving for phat 50. I always recommend both and lenses can be had fairly cheaply. Work your network se what your photographer friends are trying to sell. Check your local shops.
Molly look super cool. I always like 10, 14, 24 *Jump 50, 80 * Jump 200, i don't understand what those in between for, always thought of it as redundant focal length, now i know what 35mm is for... Great explanation. Thank you. 👍
I use the 35mm for group photos. I use the 50mm for portraiture with single model but i still want some context, where the model is. I use the 85mm when i simply want to focus on the model (that's all, not the surounding)
Thanks Matt for the explanation and showing the photos of your family. They're lovely! Hope you all are doing well during this challenging time. Sending love from Shanghai! 🤙🤙🤙
I have a 35mm and a 50mm for my Nikon FM and this was very helpful, thanks Matt !! Also : the acoustic guitar you use for your slideshows is really wonderful and it goes so well with your photography, keep being awesome
Great video mate, as always. Seeing side by sides and a lot of the real world use is unbeatable for getting the point across. I've used a 35mm equivalent lens for so long that when I use my 50mm I often find I'll have to take two steps back from wherever I think I should be standing...I guess our minds just get conditioned like that. Looking forward to whatever you put out next, take it easy Matt.
This was really wonderful. Your video was so different in that it is about the feeling the lenses offer by their compositional abilities. Truly what it's about. Beautiful photos, really loved the motion shots of the dogs together, as well as your portrait composition of your wife with the 50mm. A new little influence. Thank you.
Amazing depth to what the two focal lengths feel like and I did not expect my attention to be drawn to some subtle issues in this way. The intimate beauty capacity of 50mm and the wonderful story context of 35mm. It comes across that you love the image, the subject and the sharing. There is dimensional depth that can not be understood, only experienced. Very few looking from the outside appreciate that images are slices of your life, and a dog is a person whose spirit dances with light like yours. Love your house intensely for only the photos will stop time.
You are rare in that you don't spout wide open for everything which is an unfortunate fad these days I used 35 for 85 percent of my weddings at F8 and always sharp focus...composition is everything along with timing and lighting and expression in ongoing documentation near and far with your feet being the zoom I used 50 for formal portraits of bride and groom 85 for details and close up of vows and rings during ceremony as well as 35 for wider scope
The photo examples near the end are everything. Very helpful and appreciated! Thank you. I've been shooting 50 or 55mm (or equivalent on medium format), and very recently Sony's amazing 24mm f/1.4 GM digital full frame. I need to try a 35mm. The 24mm is my favorite for composition in many cases, all the stuff you can have from front to back, and the environment. But, it can be so limiting in just being too wide for many things, and for producing very slanted lines and odd perspectives if you can't shoot exactly on level. I love the 50/55mm lenses for anything with people close up. I really do love primes, though. They change how I look at things in a good way.
Matt those images at the end were extremely motivating, and reminded me once again why I have a passion for taking photos. Yes they were simple, but yet had a depth of feeling to them.
Although you say you can't fill the frame as easily with a 35mm, my Pentax M f2.8 35mm has min focus distance 30cm, the M 50mm f1.7 45cm. (although both focus closer than marked), giving basically the same view close up. Also on a recent walking holiday in Albanian Alps I took the 35mm, 50mm and 135mm on my LX, but used the 50mm most of all because even with landscapes I find I'm often wanting to cut stuff out of the frame (annoying branches etc). And 11:20 is just super, super cute!
You are such a wonderful photographer. I can feel the warmth and love you have for your family through your images. This was, also, very educational. I do see the subtle different between the two lenses. 35mm is great for showing someone within a space. There’s a sense of depth. With the 50, you are capturing facial expressions and details. The 50mm is about the subject. However, outdoors the difference between the two lenses is a bit less noticeable. It’s tough if you don’t have 2 cameras. You want to be able to create both kinds of images, but you also want to be spontaneous..so changing lenses is not an option. A 24-70 is an option, but those suckers are heavy (though the Tamron 28-75 g2 is lighter and a perfect focal range for photos of people, but it’s not a Sony (I shoot on an a7iv). Maybe I should stop being a brand snob and just make the compromise that suits me. Or get a 35 and just accept that on days that I have my 35, I won’t be able to make exactly the same kind of images I can make with my 50, and vice versa. Eh, first world problems.
I just asked you a few days ago on Instagram about which focal length you use the most. So I really appreciate this video! 😀 -the guy on the ship in Norway
What a beautiful human being you are! thanks so much for the info, I have decided on the 50mm and so appreciate your great shots to explain. visually, the difference in the two prime lenses I have been considering.
I was thinking of getting a 35mm and 55mm lens, but wasn't sure because I thought they may be to similar. But your point about the consistent look makes so much sense, I feel much more confident this is what I should do, Thanks .
Hi Matt: honestly, at first I thought OK, another snob with Leica blablabla... but your photos are really impressive. You have a great eye! I have a Sony A7 with the first two lenses they made, the 35/2.8 and the 55/1.8. I do all my photos with that (the zoom is in the bag every time). As you, I prefer the 35, and use the 55 for portraits (or low light conditions, this is the only problem with the 35/2.8). I spend a lot of time thinking in buying new stuff. Maybe I should invest my time in improve my art and keep the money. Thanks for your video and your photos.
I personally love the 35mm and can live without any other lens if must be but when it comes to closer head and should type of portraits 50mm is a lot more pleasing to an eye.
As the one who normally use medium format cameras, I would say that 50mm is a well-balance lens between land scape and portrait shooting, since I mostly goes with upper 75mm lens which is not purposely made for land scape photography and I always tend to use 35mm camera with 50mm lens that could give me more space for land scape shot for any sudden situations.
Hi Matt. Great new video here! 35mm has always been a mixed bag for me. To view environment or to view compression. I became a 28mm guy as walk and shoot and have a 50mm equiv. for more direct portraits with some compression. It is nice to see your differences in the framing. You seem to be going more direct to the subject when you use the fifty and tend to more environmental story telling with out of center subjects with the 35. Ah and great photos as always!
Focal length makes little difference unless your working in confined spaces. For most out door work, you can zoom with your feet. I could get the same composition “roughly” with my 20mm as I can with my 105mm - the distance to the subject would certainly change. So why different focal lengths? We select different focal lengths because of the difference in DOF and the background compression differences to either isolate our subject or put them into their environment- simple as that.
all of these lenses have their purpose, with that being said I'm so glad you did this video, it was so wonderful being able to see your work ,how good you are with the Leica system and your incredible professional craft Great Images!!!
Really nice discussion of how you use the two lenses, 35mm and 50mm, and great photos to illustrate your point! I like all shots but maybe especially some of the motion blurred ones. I enjoy your RUclips videos - please keep going! :)
After years with the zeiss biogon 35mm lens on my M6 i'm thinking of switching up to a 50mm focal length, I knew I could find a video to help compare on your channel.
Grew up with the 50 because back in the day, it was what was sold with the camera (K1000 in my case). Keep trying with 35, so now I'm kind of stuck between the two. My favourite photo, irrespective of focal length and apart from the last Molly photo, is the one of Nora at the bottom of the slide.
I shoot with a Fuji X-Pro-2 so obviously I also enjoy the rangefinder (style) body and experience. I started out with a bag of lenses and a serious case of GAS, or gear acquisition syndrome. Lately I've felt my interest waning and began to realize that my gear was physically and metaphorically weighing me down. When I looked back at my images over the past two years I discovered that the vast majority were taken with my 23 and 35 APSC lenses, or 35 and 53 in full-frame terms. Based on your video it's obvious you don't need a bag of lenses to tell a story. Thanks
I have an APSC camera (Fuji XPro1) and what works for me is my Nikon 35mm F2 with a focal reducer adapter and my old film fuji 55mm 1.8 lens with regular M39 adapter..(close to 80mm equivalent) .These two just cover the range nicely.
It's important to mention that a 35mm lens on a aps-c camera like the ones people buy the most ( Nikon d3300, Canon t5i, sony a6000) will be equal to roughly 55 mm. The 50mm will equal to roughly 78 mm. What this means is that if you have one of these cameras, you will not get the look that you see in his video because he has a full frame camera. You will roughly get the look of his 50mm lens with a 35mm lens but your 50mm will become more of a telephoto lens. This means that you wont be able to get a wide view of the scene. It will be zoomed in all the time. I write this because I didn't know that before and I always thought that my 50mm on my nikon d3300 was giving me the focal lenght of what the eyes can see but it turns out it was my 35mm who would give me the best representation. Hope that helps someone and great video dude!
Emilioh888 same camera as me, which lens do you recommend to use with d3300? Used for some event, portraits and fashion photography?
For portraits I would recommend the 50mm. You get an easier nice background blur effect and the faces will appear more natural. But for events it will be very difficult to get wide shots with it. The 35mm is better for wider shots. So if you do more portraits-->50 mm. If you do more event--> 35mm. The best thing to do is to go to your local camera store and try them to see which you like the most. Hope that helps ;)
Lol i don't know why the 50mm part in my reply is crossed... I didn't intend to do that..
Emilioh888 thanks man i appreciate the reply
If you honestly don't know at the beginning, I don't think you could go wrong getting some version of a fast standard zoom. For canon aps-C I would recommend something like the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8. After using a decent lens like that, you start to realize which end of the spectrum you gravitate to (ie do you like your 17mm photos more or less than your 50mm photos). On the other hand if you need a walkaround lens or an event lens (like at a wedding, where you may miss shots if swapping lenses, and cannot "zoom with your feet" in certain situations) then a fast standard zoom will likely serve you much better than one fixed lens. I personally use a manual focus 50mm 1.4 old legacy Minolta MD Rokkor lens I got off ebay for $40 on a fuji XT1 and I absolutely love the perspective (it is about a 75mm FOV FF equivalent). But it took me ten tries with different lenses to figure it out!!
I am watching this video today that you made four years ago, and it is a timeless video. The topic applies today and for generations to come. I love your 35mm family photos, great composition and context for you to look at and remember in years to come.
Great video!
Ex-combat photojournalist here.
While your 50mm shots were masterfully artful, your 35mm told better stories.
Beautiful family!
Great video mate and some beautiful images in there. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you!
Matt, the shot of Molly through the window with your reflection is something else.
Her eye is almost perfectly placed where yours would be!
Thank you!
I hadn't even thought on consistency before this. In the age of social media and scrolling through your Instagram images or portfolio, having that consistence is a benefit indeed.
The general (though not universal) thrust I got from the pictures is that 35mm puts the subject in a broader context more easily; 50mm is there for when the context/background isn't so important and the subject comes to the fore.
It's all preference, but I feel like the 35 is a better story teller.
This is all needed to hear to go for 35mm after all the research.
I made the right choice
Yes.. My first lens is 35mm. But it depends on environment. For me, the right choice is 35mm
Well he did say he grabs the 35 ninety nine percent of the time
50mm is way a bit more zoom for me. I choose 35mm too.
I love how your photos always capture the exceptional beauty of everyday life Matt.
Your photos have got a certain magic about them
Thank you!
David Preston well, he is using a Leica 🤓
Yep... they are all black and white.
Great video, I always find it interesting that people struggle to figure out what mm lens to use. When I started out I was told by a pretty seasoned professional to buy a lens anywhere between 30mm and 50mm and then just move myself accordingly, it will make me a better photographer. Example: If I shoot with my 50mm and want to fill the frame more I move closer and vice versa. Obviously you can't always do that as fixed objects tend not to move out of your way easily but I have never really had an issue. Actually, some of my best shots have been because and object was in my way and I had to take the shot from a different angle that I didn't initially consider.
35mm has been my staple lens every since I discovered the X100s 3 years ago. It has ultimately changed my approach to photography and I no longer use zoom lenses. For myself, I'm also happy with only the 35mm (environmental portraits and documentary) and a 50mm (more intimate moments and portraits).
I only use an 85mm for professional portraits where the compression is needed. If you were to give me one lens for the rest of my life, I wouldn't hesitate in saying 35mm!
I think the X100 series was a gamechanger for a lot of people in terms of that focal length, myself included! When the original X100 came out, that was the first time I shot with that focal length on a daily basis.
Absolutely. I have the X100F and the 35mm FOV is just perfect for family and life around the home photos. 28mm fels a bit to wide for me, and 50mm feels too tight.
May I ask why compression is 'needed' in professional portrait? Do you mean to shorten someone's big nose?
@@jelly.1899 I said "where needed". Professional portraiture might want the 85mm look, or the wider look for certain goals.
@@nickbedford thanks, I misread.
Stumbled onto your video and found it very informative. However, what I appreciated most is the high quality images you included. Wow! Those are some of the most gorgeous, yet simple and natural, b+w images I've seen in a long time!! Excellent work!!
I travelled through Japan with only the Fuji 23mm f2, it nearly did everything I needed, there may have been one two times I could have used a 24mm equivalent but for the most part it is the jack of all trades.
All your videos are brilliant. Your style and presentation and personality make these THE most watchable and enjoyable I have seen in years. I can’t thank you enough for producing and sharing such great content. You have a gift.
The best video I have ever watched showing the difference between both lenses!! Your photographs are awesome!! Fell in love with the music too!! Greetings from a Mexican residing in Canada!!
Really like the direction your channel is taking, gear reviews are fun but I find vids about creative choices when making pictures are where its at for me
Thank you! I'm trying to share more practical, every day use kind of videos.
Whenever I want to see some good photographs and really enjoy watching them with good music I play this video. Is it just me?
Really love your work @matt
I always felt like 50mm on a FF is just what I see with my eyes. That's why I rather prefer 35mm because I always want a wider angle and show more. However, 50mm is also great because, as you said, it compresses things and makes the photo more focused on one object. I used a 50 to shoot Xmas last year and it turned out great, didn't feel like I missed anything in the frames and since I've been using the Nifty Fifty, they came out beautiful :)
That's an interesting point! Thanks!
The photos really showed exactly how both lenses have their place. The photos, for me, were superb. It was a pleasure to see them & feel inspired. You have a new subscriber.
Matt I must admit that your Black & White photos are outstanding and so inspiring at the same time. Cheers!
First, you’re incredibly talented, especially when taking “apparently” casual shots. Apparently because when I look at the attributes - lighting, timing, focus, composition) - nobody could be nailing all these difficult aspects just haphazardly. I’m sure you’ve trained yourself so much of the effort is subconscious, but the results show tremendous effort.
The pic of your wife with a halo of your reflection, your child with hair covering half her face with just an eye - in focus - poking out with so much life. I, for one, would like to see more videos on composition and lighting, especially of people. Thanks.
After watching thousands of RUclips videos, this is one of the best!
Wonderful photos. Definitely see the 50mm for isolation and 35mm for context. But, both look like they belong together.
Pure Black and white art in those pictures!
One of the key points you make that I'd articulate yet another way is to think about focal length in terms of what else you include when you keep the "subject" the same size in frame. Focal length then forces you to think about not only what you include, but how big those things are to one another, which is clearly vital to composition of an image (as opposed to vital to photography).
Very true! I didn't even think about that but that's a great point.
Choosing between 35mm and 50mm is so tough sometimes.
This is why I like to only bring one. No decisions to be made in the field. I just shoot. :)
Matt Day That is true. I need to stop telling myself "I should have brought that one instead of this one" and just shoot with what I have. I think we all get caught up in gear sometimes.
Indoor 35mm is better outdoor when you can move both would be great
That’s why 24-70mm comes in
Currently, my dilemma right now. I like both but can only get one right now. Ugh its frustrating I like the depth of the 50mm but the 35 is a bit cheaper.
Just fell across your page. Love your photographs. Put a big smile on my face! Mission accomplished.
I prefer 50mm. I get less lines intruding on my compositions, and it’s as much of a portrait lens as I need it to be in tighter quarters. Getting a wider view is just a matter of stepping back. I save 28mm for country landscapes 😊
Matt, what a great video to watch. This is valuable information for many amateur shooters. But in fact I was blown away by the last image of you and Molly at 11:52. What a great double portrait. Beautifully composed and you can really feel the love. As a professional myself, I recognize these once-in-a-million shots. By the way, the image at 11:22 is another beauty. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks. Very useful video. I'd been considering getting a 35mm for my Pentax Spotmatic but, looking at those photographs at the end, I realise the 50mm suits my style so much better. I guess that's why the 35mm 1.4 hardly ever leaves my X-Pro2 (roughly 50mm equivalent on the crop sensor).
I really enjoyed seeing your photos - wonderful composition and an eye for good light. I receive my first Leica next week - an M11 with the 50mm Summilux-M 1.4 ASPH. I am really looking forward to this new type of shooting experience.
One of the best things about 50mm on the M is the great amount of space around the frame lines. I never would have thought how amazing that is until I got the 262. Seeing what is just outside allows me to anticipate and compose much more freely.
Very true!
Thanks Matt. I bought Fuji 35mm lens (50mm ff equiv) as my first prime - a bit tight for me at first but it grows on me. I just picked pick up Fuji 23mm (35mm ff equiv) and yes it is more versatile. Overall, 50mm (ff) is better to isolate a subject and portrait. 35mm (ff) is versatile and good at storytelling. Great to have both prime lens in our arsenal :)
Thank you. It helped me decide on the 35mm. Especially the samples you provided as that is the style of shots I would be taking of our kids. We already have a zoom lens that can cover for the 50mm and above.
Both are far more seductive when viewed through an SLR,especially the 35,RF cameras and frame lines are fine and the much vaunted Leicas are fabulous instruments, but through the lens viewing with a fine SLR is incomparable.
Pretty cool the discipline you have. It probably makes it easier to point and shoot rather than overthink. Awesome images!
We I started photography I love zoom lenses but over time I fell in love with primes because I love fast glass. I love both the 35 and 50 and often struggled to decide which to carry. My rule now is if I’m on vacation or street photography then it’s my 35mm 1.4 but if I’m going home for the holidays or places like weddings where most of the pictures will be portraits then it’s my 50mm 1.2. Love the video and your photos 👊
Very useful discussion; and the pics are lovely!
Thanks for sharing your personal insights.
Oh my, this is such a good video. Thank you a lot for this! Also ... You have a great family, man. Your kids will absolutely love those photos when they grow up.
Thanks for this video Matt! I was kind of stuck on exactly this. Loved your 35mm series and how you compose on that length. Funny how just by looking at your pics I seemed to got all the clarifying I needed.
One of your best videos to date. A question that I still contemplate after 25 years of shooting. The only 2 lenses I own for my M system. Your style is most excellent!!!
I haven't come across such a clear explanation for the choice between the 35mm and 50mm lenses and understand why you chose to use both.
i only use 35 and 50 too... i bought them as my "starter" lenses and thought the reason i hadn't added more to my arsenal was because of procrastination but after watching this video i realize the real reason is that the 35 and 50 capture all that i'm most interested in. I like your pics and like your voice too man. Thanks for the vid.
A video from almost five years ago, but super helpful. Love your images as well as your explanation. Thanks five years later!! :-)
I use a 35 but I'm saving for phat 50. I always recommend both and lenses can be had fairly cheaply. Work your network se what your photographer friends are trying to sell. Check your local shops.
Molly look super cool. I always like 10, 14, 24 *Jump 50, 80 * Jump 200, i don't understand what those in between for, always thought of it as redundant focal length, now i know what 35mm is for... Great explanation. Thank you. 👍
I love your photos of the family they're s heartwarming to look at
Thank you!
I use the 35mm for group photos. I use the 50mm for portraiture with single model but i still want some context, where the model is. I use the 85mm when i simply want to focus on the model (that's all, not the surounding)
Many thanks for this post, it helps me to understand the use of these lens. These photos are absolutely amazing.
I shoot on apsc crop sensor and i love focusing my subject so I always shoot 50mm and 85mm. I like it personal shot.
Great photos. I too shoot (mostly family photos) using both and find them to be great complements.
Thanks Matt for the explanation and showing the photos of your family. They're lovely! Hope you all are doing well during this challenging time. Sending love from Shanghai! 🤙🤙🤙
I have a 35mm and a 50mm for my Nikon FM and this was very helpful, thanks Matt !! Also : the acoustic guitar you use for your slideshows is really wonderful and it goes so well with your photography, keep being awesome
Thank you, man! I'm happy to hear that. Enjoy that FM!
Excellent video and lots of solid information and mostly its wort watching when you come across at 9:31 and 10:32 shots. So amazing!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful family images . you have such passion for capturing images of love , joy , family life . 😇
Great video mate, as always. Seeing side by sides and a lot of the real world use is unbeatable for getting the point across. I've used a 35mm equivalent lens for so long that when I use my 50mm I often find I'll have to take two steps back from wherever I think I should be standing...I guess our minds just get conditioned like that. Looking forward to whatever you put out next, take it easy Matt.
Thank you! Glad it was helpful!
Great images man! 35 is by far my favorite length but I also love an 85 and 135
Fantastic & Lucid Explanation about the 35 & 50mm focal length, Matt Day ! Enjoyed the video thoroughly. Thanks.
Thank you!
This was really wonderful. Your video was so different in that it is about the feeling the lenses offer by their compositional abilities. Truly what it's about. Beautiful photos, really loved the motion shots of the dogs together, as well as your portrait composition of your wife with the 50mm. A new little influence. Thank you.
24 - 50 - 85
I can get almost any job done with these 3.
I use 28, 50, 75 myself. Close enough. :)
cnick6 Same here. 28, 50 and 75mm for my M10.
Draw with Light How are you liking the M10?
cnick6 It is fantastic. The image quality is really great.
true!
I search so many videos to find this comparison. The part I like most was your tipod shot to show how the lens changes the scene. Thank you.
Great video and stunningly beautiful photos...thanks and yes I agree those two focal lengths are so versatile... 👍
Amazing depth to what the two focal lengths feel like and I did not expect my attention to be drawn to some subtle issues in this way. The intimate beauty capacity of 50mm and the wonderful story context of 35mm. It comes across that you love the image, the subject and the sharing. There is dimensional depth that can not be understood, only experienced. Very few looking from the outside appreciate that images are slices of your life, and a dog is a person whose spirit dances with light like yours. Love your house intensely for only the photos will stop time.
You are rare in that you don't spout wide open for everything which is an unfortunate fad these days
I used 35 for 85 percent of my weddings at F8 and
always sharp focus...composition is everything along with
timing and lighting and expression in ongoing documentation near and far
with your feet being the zoom
I used 50 for formal portraits of bride and groom
85 for details and close up of vows and rings during
ceremony as well as 35 for wider scope
The photo examples near the end are everything. Very helpful and appreciated! Thank you. I've been shooting 50 or 55mm (or equivalent on medium format), and very recently Sony's amazing 24mm f/1.4 GM digital full frame. I need to try a 35mm. The 24mm is my favorite for composition in many cases, all the stuff you can have from front to back, and the environment. But, it can be so limiting in just being too wide for many things, and for producing very slanted lines and odd perspectives if you can't shoot exactly on level. I love the 50/55mm lenses for anything with people close up. I really do love primes, though. They change how I look at things in a good way.
Beautiful photos of your family, Matt! Thank you for sharing.
Matt those images at the end were extremely motivating, and reminded me once again why I have a passion for taking photos. Yes they were simple, but yet had a depth of feeling to them.
Thank you for including sample photos. Some people who talk about gears are all talk but no show.
Although you say you can't fill the frame as easily with a 35mm, my Pentax M f2.8 35mm has min focus distance 30cm, the M 50mm f1.7 45cm. (although both focus closer than marked), giving basically the same view close up. Also on a recent walking holiday in Albanian Alps I took the 35mm, 50mm and 135mm on my LX, but used the 50mm most of all because even with landscapes I find I'm often wanting to cut stuff out of the frame (annoying branches etc). And 11:20 is just super, super cute!
Those are beautiful family pictures. Also, I really like the simple acoustic music you played with the photos.
Thank you! And that's just some random royalty free music. Haha. I like it though!
Thx Matt for this great video. I’ll only be using the 35 and the 50mm one at a time for my work. I’m using a Canon F-1 and a Yashica 6x6… 🎉
You are such a wonderful photographer. I can feel the warmth and love you have for your family through your images. This was, also, very educational. I do see the subtle different between the two lenses. 35mm is great for showing someone within a space. There’s a sense of depth. With the 50, you are capturing facial expressions and details. The 50mm is about the subject. However, outdoors the difference between the two lenses is a bit less noticeable. It’s tough if you don’t have 2 cameras. You want to be able to create both kinds of images, but you also want to be spontaneous..so changing lenses is not an option. A 24-70 is an option, but those suckers are heavy (though the Tamron 28-75 g2 is lighter and a perfect focal range for photos of people, but it’s not a Sony (I shoot on an a7iv). Maybe I should stop being a brand snob and just make the compromise that suits me. Or get a 35 and just accept that on days that I have my 35, I won’t be able to make exactly the same kind of images I can make with my 50, and vice versa. Eh, first world problems.
Just rewatched this video....how I love these photos. ❤️
I just asked you a few days ago on Instagram about which focal length you use the most. So I really appreciate this video! 😀
-the guy on the ship in Norway
Sure thing! And I remember you! Haha.
What a beautiful human being you are! thanks so much for the info, I have decided on the 50mm and so appreciate your great shots to explain. visually, the difference in the two prime lenses I have been considering.
But for crop users the 35 would be a 50 right? I am using Nikon D3300 and wondering which one to buy for making photos of puppies or grown up dogs.
I was thinking of getting a 35mm and 55mm lens, but wasn't sure because I thought they may be to similar. But your point about the consistent look makes so much sense, I feel much more confident this is what I should do, Thanks .
Your photos are just amazing and pleasant to look at
Hi Matt: honestly, at first I thought OK, another snob with Leica blablabla... but your photos are really impressive. You have a great eye! I have a Sony A7 with the first two lenses they made, the 35/2.8 and the 55/1.8. I do all my photos with that (the zoom is in the bag every time). As you, I prefer the 35, and use the 55 for portraits (or low light conditions, this is the only problem with the 35/2.8). I spend a lot of time thinking in buying new stuff. Maybe I should invest my time in improve my art and keep the money. Thanks for your video and your photos.
I personally love the 35mm and can live without any other lens if must be but when it comes to closer head and should type of portraits 50mm is a lot more pleasing to an eye.
Hey, I love your photos! especially those intimate family moments, and the dogs too. That's quite a find!
As the one who normally use medium format cameras, I would say that 50mm is a well-balance lens between land scape and portrait shooting, since I mostly goes with upper 75mm lens which is not purposely made for land scape photography and I always tend to use 35mm camera with 50mm lens that could give me more space for land scape shot for any sudden situations.
Hi Matt. Great new video here! 35mm has always been a mixed bag for me. To view environment or to view compression. I became a 28mm guy as walk and shoot and have a 50mm equiv. for more direct portraits with some compression.
It is nice to see your differences in the framing. You seem to be going more direct to the subject when you use the fifty and tend to more environmental story telling with out of center subjects with the 35.
Ah and great photos as always!
Thank you! I'm glad a different sense of composing came through in the comparison.
After seeing your photos I changed my mind and went with 50mm. Those are just beautiful shots. Great job!
Focal length makes little difference unless your working in confined spaces. For most out door work, you can zoom with your feet. I could get the same composition “roughly” with my 20mm as I can with my 105mm - the distance to the subject would certainly change. So why different focal lengths? We select different focal lengths because of the difference in DOF and the background compression differences to either isolate our subject or put them into their environment- simple as that.
all of these lenses have their purpose, with that being said I'm so glad you did this video, it was so wonderful being able to see your work ,how good you are with the Leica system and your incredible professional craft Great Images!!!
Really nice discussion of how you use the two lenses, 35mm and 50mm, and great photos to illustrate your point! I like all shots but maybe especially some of the motion blurred ones. I enjoy your RUclips videos - please keep going! :)
Matt, you don't just take photos, you capture life
I share your love for the 35mm for all my personal stuff, it is such a natural focal length that makes you work for your image!
That's for sure! Thanks for watching!
After years with the zeiss biogon 35mm lens on my M6 i'm thinking of switching up to a 50mm focal length, I knew I could find a video to help compare on your channel.
Grew up with the 50 because back in the day, it was what was sold with the camera (K1000 in my case). Keep trying with 35, so now I'm kind of stuck between the two. My favourite photo, irrespective of focal length and apart from the last Molly photo, is the one of Nora at the bottom of the slide.
Thank you! They're both versatile lenses, for sure.
I shoot with a Fuji X-Pro-2 so obviously I also enjoy the rangefinder (style) body and experience. I started out with a bag of lenses and a serious case of GAS, or gear acquisition syndrome. Lately I've felt my interest waning and began to realize that my gear was physically and metaphorically weighing me down. When I looked back at my images over the past two years I discovered that the vast majority were taken with my 23 and 35 APSC lenses, or 35 and 53 in full-frame terms. Based on your video it's obvious you don't need a bag of lenses to tell a story. Thanks
Should I get a 35mm or 18-35mm? It's so hard to choose. When I shoot, I mostly like to shoot wider shots.
It’s crazy rewatching these old videos to find some inspiration and seeing a baby Elliott and tiny Nora.
They're big kids now 😭
On FF the 40mm focal length is the most natural I think. 50mm is just to tight for me.
Your shots are incredible. This is my first video of yours. LOVE your work man at first sight man. Subscribed immediately!
Now, I know much better about which lens suits well for my usage. Great video ! Keep it up ! BTW, those sample shots were great !
I have an APSC camera (Fuji XPro1) and what works for me is my Nikon 35mm F2 with a focal reducer adapter and my old film fuji 55mm 1.8 lens with regular M39 adapter..(close to 80mm equivalent) .These two just cover the range nicely.
That's a solid combo!
my personal lenses are a 50 and 135, but your 35mm images a wonderful. Gives me a little inspiration to try it :)
A real informative video for choosing between this two lenses , made my choice easier