28mm VS. 35mm - It’s a dilemma
28mm and 35mm are my go-to focal lengths. They're very, very similar. This isn’t about the obvious differences between, say, 16mm and 200mm. This is about nuance. Subtle details that change how I approach a scene depending on which one I pick up.
This is about when and where a 28mm or 35mm lens might be more appropriate and more effective.
NYC - 35mm
I shoot a lot of street photography, but I think some of these thoughts might overflow into other photography styles too. Whether it’s travel, documentary, or lifestyle work. what I’m about to share probably applies more broadly than just the street.
Quick caveat before we get too deep:
Anything can look good from any perspective. There are no rules. Plenty of room for subjectivity here. You already know that. But this is my channel, and right now—until I read the comments—this is a one-way dialogue. So here are some internal thoughts that have been bouncing around in my head.
Honestly, this probably isn’t all that important… but I love chatting about this nerdy stuff anyway—so here goes.
Two Ways I Approach Street Photography
I often fall between these two types of shooting:
Crafting
Here, the emphasis is on shaping the image—being selective with your scene and often waiting for the right subject to enter. These shots are typically more aesthetically pleasing, maybe even technically superior. But sometimes they lack that raw substance.
Aesthetics > Story.
Discovering
This is all about reacting. Spotting something unexpected. Capturing a moment that could’ve easily gone unseen. These aren’t always technically perfect, but they’re often more emotionally compelling.
Story > Aesthetics.
In my experience:
28mm works best for discovering moments
35mm works best for crafting them
Dublin - 28mm
But Why Not Go Wider?
You might be thinking:
"Mike, if you like the natural and organic feel of wider lenses, why stop at 28mm? Why not 24mm? Or 21, 18, 16?"
I think 28mm is the limit before things start to feel distorted. Before the edges of the frame start playing with physics.
Don’t get me wrong—super-wide looks can be incredible. I’ve seen 16mm shots that make life look electric. But those lenses lean into a more creative interpretation of reality. They move away from the photographer’s casual perspective and start introducing effects.
That’s why I think 28mm is the sweet spot.
I’ve made a whole video about 28mm already where I dive into that more—but today I wanted to bring 35mm into the conversation too.
When Do I Pick Which?
If I had to pick one focal length that just makes images look good—it’s 35mm.
Neat. Organised. Intentional.
Aesthetically, it might be my favourite. If I want a beautiful, clean image—35mm is the one I’ll reach for.
But…
If I’m going on a casual street photography walk, maybe in a new city, getting my steps in and soaking in the atmosphere—28mm is my easy, carefree choice.
If I’m feeling more intentional, maybe hunting for light, chasing shadows, even taking the odd portrait—35mm gives me more control and focus.
NYC - 35mm
Real-World Example
A few weeks ago, I went out for a drive with my friend and his beautiful classic 911.
It’s a 964 model—one of the most gorgeous cars to ever exist.
We grabbed some pizza, the sun was setting… honestly, it was kinda romantic haha.
That evening, I took the 35mm with me - because I knew what I was walking into. I wanted to shoot some details, play with the shape of the car, frame things cleanly. The compositions mattered. The aesthetic mattered.
Would 28mm have worked? Sure. Any lens would’ve worked.
But 35mm, for that moment, was ideal.
Porsche 911 964 - 35mm
Final Thoughts
These are just internal thoughts I’m working through - nothing definitive.
Both lenses are fantastic. Both are natural. Both are capable of making great photographs. But they serve slightly different purposes, and noticing the difference has helped me be more intentional.
Anyway, thanks for nerding out with me.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments - I’d love to hear how others use 28mm and 35mm in their own way.