Photography is often about finding ways to see the world differently. For some, that means embracing a variety of focal lengths and techniques. But what if the goal is to capture scenes that look as natural as possible?
Coming to you from James Popsys, this insightful video dives into what he calls his “thin glass” photography mantra. The idea is simple: minimize the impact of the lens so that it feels like the viewer is looking directly at the scene. Popsys elaborates on how his preference for focal lengths between 40mm and 50mm allows him to produce a look that closely resembles how the human eye naturally sees. This focal length range avoids the exaggerated distortions of wide angle lenses or the heavy compression of telephotos. It’s all about creating images that appear honest and unforced.
One of the key takeaways from this video is Popsys’ emphasis on shooting at various times of day. While many photographers chase golden hour light, he believes that capturing scenes at different times helps convey the experience of being in a place more authentically. The same logic extends to his choice of apertures. Instead of using f/16 or higher for deep depth-of-field, Popsys often opts for medium apertures like f/5.6 or f/8. This helps create a slight blur in either the foreground or background, mirroring how the human eye naturally focuses.
Another critical point raised in the video is Popsys’ commitment to handheld shooting at head height. He mentions that this is how people usually view the world, which makes his images feel more relatable and familiar. This choice contrasts with the trend of shooting from extreme angles, like getting close to the ground for reflections or climbing high for aerial views. It’s a subtle but impactful way to make his images more accessible, as if you’re standing right there in the scene.
Popsys also highlights the benefits of reducing the number of lenses he uses. He recently sold all his telephoto lenses, realizing that he hadn’t used them for a couple of years outside of specific situations. By focusing on the 40mm to 50mm range, he simplifies his kit and commits fully to his minimalist, natural approach. This decision aligns with his overall philosophy of taking photos that look like you just happened upon them, without obvious signs of heavy equipment or post-processing. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Popsys.
