2025: The Year of the 50mm
If you've been following my photography journey, you'll know that last year, over 90% of my images were captured at the 35mm focal length. My second favorite was 85mm, while 50mm remained my least-used and least-loved focal length. So, why dedicate 2025 to the 50mm?
It all began with my new camera—the Leica M11.
Treating myself to my first Leica this year has significantly reshaped my photography experience. While experimenting with the Leica’s optical viewfinder, I unexpectedly discovered that the 50mm framelines perfectly suited my vision. Unlike the 35mm framelines, which were challenging to see clearly with my glasses, the 50mm framelines offered a comfortable balance between viewing beyond the frame and composing with ease. Every camera system requires adapting one's habits, and I'm willing to embrace this shift.
To fully commit, I acquired a Voigtlander Nokton 50mm Vintage Line lens, and I have to admit—I’m loving it. The images this lens produces have captivated me, drawing me deeper into exploring this classic focal length.
Interestingly, when reviewing my images from last year, I noticed something significant: many of my 35mm shots were consistently cropped down to around a 50mm frame. This subtle but persistent editing habit hinted at a subconscious preference for the aesthetic of a 50mm perspective. Given my love for clean compositions, minimalistic aesthetics, and strong singular subjects, 50mm naturally aligns with these preferences, all without forcing me uncomfortably close to my subjects.
Switching focal lengths has also creatively rejuvenated me, breaking the cycle of repetitive compositions that had started to feel predictable at 35mm. The move to 50mm has pushed me out of my comfort zone, sparking fresh ideas and challenging me to think differently. Here’s some photos I’ve taken using the 50mm Voigtlander & Leica M11:
Someone once described the 50mm focal length as "a step away from anything," and that deeply resonated with me. A simple adjustment of my position lets me add context or isolate a subject more clearly. Given my previous fondness for both 35mm and 85mm, 50mm represents an ideal middle ground, merging familiarity with exciting new challenges.
But what if stepping back isn't an option? Thankfully, I have a reliable backup in my Fujifilm X100VI. During a recent family trip to Tampa, Florida, for a friend's wedding, bringing both my Leica M11 and Fujifilm X100VI proved invaluable. The Fuji, which is weather sealed once you add a filter, allowed me to shoot comfortably in sandy, windy conditions without risking damage to my Leica. Having this robust "beater" camera ensures I can always shoot confidently, even in challenging environments.
So here I am, enthusiastically dedicating 2025 to mastering the 50mm focal length. I'm excited to break away from my routine, embrace new creative opportunities, and discover how this shift shapes my photography.
Now I'd love to hear from you—what's your favorite focal length, and why?
