YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Pick a single subject — a person, object, architectural detail, or street scene — and photograph it using three different focal lengths (wide, standard, and telephoto). Create a mini-series of 3–5 images that show how perspective, context, and storytelling change with focal length.
Your series should include:
• A wide shot that shows the subject in its environment
• A medium/standard shot that balances subject and surroundings
• A telephoto/close-up that isolates details, patterns, or expressions
• Optional: additional frames exploring intermediate focal lengths or alternative angles
• Images that together demonstrate how the same subject can convey different stories depending on lens choice
This assignment encourages you to explore perspective, scale, and storytelling through lens selection.
ENCOURAGING CONSIDERATION
– Think about context vs. isolation. Wide lenses include surroundings and set the scene; telephoto compresses space and highlights details or expressions.
– Change your framing, not just the lens. Adjust angles, distance, and composition to make each focal length tell a unique part of the story.
– Observe distortion. Wide lenses exaggerate depth and scale; telephoto flattens perspective. Use these effects creatively to enhance storytelling.
– Look for details. Telephoto or close-ups allow you to focus on textures, gestures, or subtle expressions that aren’t visible from afar.
– Sequence intentionally. Consider presenting the series from wide to tight (environment → subject → detail) or in another order that enhances narrative flow.
– Be mindful of light. Changing distance or lens can affect exposure; adjust accordingly to maintain consistent mood.
• Experiment and compare. This assignment is also about learning how different lenses change perception — review your shots side by side to see the effect.