Exercise 13: A standard view

This exercise calls for the use of a standard lens, i.e. a lens that reproduces perspective that generally looks "natural" to a human observer under normal viewing conditions.

So what exactly is the focal length of a standard lens? Well this is typically based on the diagonal of the sensor size. I'm using a Canon 5D mkII which is described as a full size sensor, meaning the same size as 35mm film. The 35mm actually refers to the width of the film including sprocket holes, the usable negative size being a rectangle of 24mm by 36mm. The diagonal measurement of the sensor is then 43mm (ignoring decimals) and so a standard lens for 'full frame' is usually considered to be 45mm or 50mm. In this case I have used a 17-40 wide angle zoom lens at a maximum focal length of 40mm. Note that looking through the viewfinder, even with a standard lens, will not be the same as looking directly due to various factors, including that we normally use two eyes to help with depth perception, we move our eyes and we have a non-colour peripheral vision etc.

Here the engine driver finishes a cup of tea before getting ready to set off:

From OCA People and Place Photos

One of the younger volunteers:

From OCA People and Place Photos

Here a journalist, the one on the right with the notepad, picks up some information from the crew:

From OCA People and Place Photos

The young volunteer again, walks along the platform with traditional picket fence in the background:

From OCA People and Place Photos

A high ISO and fast shutter speed allowed me to catch this film crew on the platform, taken from inside the moving train as it departed the station:

From OCA People and Place Photos

The guard talks to one of the passengers. Bonus point if you can spot the self portrait in this image:

From OCA People and Place Photos

Operating the points:

From OCA People and Place Photos

Off to the workshops as the train moves off behind, getting ready for the next departure:

From OCA People and Place Photos

A standard lens allows for easy assessment of potential shots, what you see is very similar to what you will get. The focal length means you have a reasonable working distance between photographer and subject. It works well for individuals and small groups.