Focal Length Simulator
See what 35mm, 50mm, 85mm and other focal lengths do to your composition
Your focal length sets your angle of view and how the background looks. Upload a photo and switch between 35mm, 50mm, 85mm and more to see straight away how each one changes your composition, without changing lenses.
Drag a photo here or click to choose
JPG only · max 10 MB · photo stays on your device
Focal Length Simulator: how it works
The focal length simulator shows you how the same scene looks through a 35mm, 50mm, 85mm or other lenses. Use it when scouting a location, planning a shoot, or deciding which lens to bring. Upload a reference shot and compare focal lengths side by side.
What focal length actually does to your frame
A longer focal length compresses space: backgrounds appear closer to your subject. A shorter focal length stretches depth and makes environments feel more expansive. This goes beyond how much you fit in the frame. It changes the spatial relationship between everything in the shot.
For portrait work, the difference is immediate. At 35mm you stand close and the background falls away quickly. At 85mm you step back, the background compresses, and the face sits naturally in the scene without the distortion you get at wider lengths.
Using the simulator to plan a shoot
The tool works best when you upload something close to the location or situation you are planning for. A street scene, an interior, a landscape. From there you compare how 24mm, 50mm and 135mm relate to each other in that specific frame.
If you are scouting a location, shoot a quick test frame with your phone, upload it and run through the focal lengths. You will know which lens to pack and where to position yourself before you even show up with your camera.
Frequently asked questions
Which focal length should I use for street photography in a busy city center?
A 35mm gives you enough angle to include context without needing too much distance from your subject. In narrow alleys or crowded markets a 28mm works well too. The simulator lets you test both against a reference frame before you commit.
Why does my portrait look distorted when I shoot at a wide focal length?
Below 50mm, distortion becomes noticeable at close distances. A nose or chin can look disproportionately large. The simulator makes that effect visible, which explains why most portrait photographers reach for 85mm or longer.
How do I figure out how far back I need to stand for a given focal length?
The simulator shows you the crop at each focal length based on your reference image. From the change in framing you can estimate how many steps forward or back you need. Pair that with a rangefinder app or simply count your paces on location.