Field of View (FOV)

What it is

Field of view (FOV) refers to the extent of the scene that a camera lens can capture. It’s influenced by the focal length of the lens and the camera’s sensor size. Wide-angle lenses offer larger FOV, while telephoto lenses narrow it.

Why it's important

FOV affects composition, depth, and audience perspective. A wide FOV can show large environments, while a narrow FOV isolates subjects and draws focus inward. It influences mood as much as framing.

When/how to use

Select FOV based on your storytelling goal - wide for establishing shots, narrow for portraits or detail shots. Be conscious of distortion at very wide angles, especially in close-ups.

Best Practices

Match lens to story – Use wide FOV for expansive environments, narrow FOV for isolating subjects.
Avoid distortion – Be mindful of extreme wide angles, which can warp edges or faces.
Guide audience perspective – Choose FOV deliberately to shape how viewers experience space and scale.