Wide Angle
A lens with a short focal length that captures a broad field of view.
What is Wide Angle?
Wide-angle lenses are characterized by their short focal lengths (typically 35mm or less on full-frame cameras), which allow them to capture a broader field of view than the human eye. These lenses create distinctive images with exaggerated perspective—objects close to the lens appear larger and more prominent, while distant objects appear smaller and farther away. This distortion can be used creatively to emphasize foreground elements, create a sense of spaciousness, or add dramatic impact to scenes. Wide-angle lenses excel in landscape photography for capturing expansive vistas, in architectural photography for including entire structures, in interior photography for showing rooms in their entirety, and in environmental portraiture for placing subjects in context. Ultra-wide or fisheye lenses (15mm or less) create even more pronounced distortion, which can be used for creative or artistic effect. When using wide-angle lenses, photographers must be mindful of composition, as these lenses include more elements and can make scenes appear chaotic if not carefully arranged.
AI Prompting Tips
For AI-generated images simulating wide-angle lens effects, include phrases like 'shot with wide-angle lens', '24mm perspective', or 'expansive field of view'. For the characteristic perspective distortion, try 'dramatic wide-angle perspective with exaggerated foreground' or 'architectural shot with wide-angle lens showing entire building'. For creative effects, specify 'fisheye lens distortion' or 'ultra-wide 14mm lens effect with curved horizon'. The most convincing wide-angle prompts include both the expanded view and the typical perspective distortion, like 'interior photograph with wide-angle lens showing entire room with exaggerated perspective'.
Example Prompts
"Portrait of a woman with beautiful bokeh background, soft evening light, professional photography"
"Street scene at night with wide angle effect, urban environment, neon lights, cinematic"
Related Terms
Quick Reference
Category
Equipment
Common Uses
Key AI Prompt Words
Create Social Media Photos
Generate Cool PhotosTransform Your Photos
Stand out on Instagram, Tinder & LinkedIn

Casual Shots to Social Media Magic
Turn your everyday photos into attention-grabbing social media content with our AI tools. Apply wide angle effects to make your Instagram feed pop, your Tinder profile stand out, and your LinkedIn presence look professional.
1,500+ users boosting their social media presence