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What are the most important focal lengths for press photographers?

The most important focal lengths for press photographers depend on the different situations and tasks they face. Generally speaking, the following focal lengths are particularly relevant for press photographers:

Wide-angle lenses (e.g., 24mm, 35mm): Wide-angle lenses allow press photographers to capture a large scene or crowd. They are ideal for reportage photos, landscape shots, and events with limited space.

Standard lenses (e.g., 50mm): Standard lenses are versatile and similar to the human angle of view. They are ideal for portraits, street photography, and general events.

Telephoto lenses (e.g. 70-200mm): Telephoto lenses allow photographers to bring in distant subjects and capture details. They are especially useful for sporting events, political gatherings, and other situations where you can't get close to the action.

Super telephoto lenses (e.g. 300mm, 400mm, 600mm): These extreme telephoto lenses allow photographers to capture very distant subjects in detail, such as at sporting events or natural events.

Zoom lenses (e.g. 24-70mm, 70-200mm): Zoom lenses offer a variable focal length, making them especially handy when you don't have the ability to change lenses often. They are also useful for reacting quickly to events and remaining flexible.

Press photographers often need to react quickly to changing situations and therefore require some versatility in their equipment. Typical equipment might include a wide-angle lens, a standard lens, and a telephoto lens to cover a wide range of photographic needs.