Difference Between Fisheye Lense and Wide Angle Lense

Fisheye lense and wide angle lense are types of lenses used in single lens reflex cameras. Both are actually considered to be wide angle lenses however, they have some differences that necessitates their separation into different categories.

Fisheye Lense

Fisheye lenses can be considered extreme wide angle lenses as their views can stretch up to 180 degrees. They were originally created for the purpose of studying cloud formations but photographers became interested in them because they give a one-of-a-kind distorted view. There are three types of fisheye lenses: the circular fisheye lens, the full-frame fisheye lens and the miniature fisheye lens.

Wide Angle Lense

Wide angle lenses are type of lens that give a wide angle view and they come in 35, 28, and 24mm lenses. Standard wide angle lens are 28mm. Wide angle lens provide great field depth, making it easier to focus background and foreground in one shot. Wide angle lenses are recommended for taking pictures in tight spaces and enclosed spaces.

Difference between Fisheye and Wide Angle Lenses

Fisheye lenses give a sort of distortion to its image; it’s like seeing through a peephole, which coincidentally uses fisheye lenses as well. This is why fisheye lenses are great for wide open spaces as they can take in more view. Wide angle lens can work in big open spaces but it’ll give the image of being at a distance from your subject. Wide angle lenses are great for confined spaces and group shot close-ups. Fisheye lenses, on the other hand are great for pictures of large crowds. For landscape shots, both lenses are great but wide angle lenses can also be used but it will appear as if you are standing far away, so it may be necessary to move in closer.

Wide angle and fisheye lens are great additions to any photographer’s tools and they are actually a must for those that like to take pictures of sceneries.