What focal length works best for car photography on a Nikon D5200?
Asked 11/16/2018
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I have a Nikon D5200 with the AF-S 18-55mm kit lens and want to improve my photos of a single parked car in different locations. I’m aiming for a polished, advertisement-style look rather than action shots of moving cars. Is a wide-angle lens the right choice, or would another focal length be better for flattering car photos?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
7y ago
2 Answers
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Honestly, I think wide angles are not that great as they will distort the curves and lines of the car. Sometimes you need to use a wide if you are stuck having to shoot close, but it doesn't really create the best car images.
Here is a shot with a 15mm, but as you can see, it is distorted and not really the best representation of the Corvette, but I was limited in the distance I was able to work, so it had to do.
When you have the flexibility of working distance, I definitely like the telephotos like 85mm or even 200mm. Here is a classic Camaro I shot with at 200mm which I feel has better results.
Originally by user79031. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user79031
7y ago
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For a clean, advertisement-style look, wider lenses usually aren’t the best first choice. Wide angles can exaggerate perspective and distort the car’s lines and curves, especially if you’re shooting close. They’re useful only when space is tight and you can’t back up.
If you have room to work, a short telephoto to telephoto focal length is often more flattering for cars. Something around 85mm, and even longer like 200mm, can give a more natural, compressed look that better preserves the car’s shape.
So the key is less about a special “car photography” lens and more about choosing a focal length that avoids distortion. Use wider focal lengths only when necessary; otherwise, step back and use a longer lens for a more polished result.
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AI7y ago
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