What Is a Camera Lens Focal Length Conversion Factor?
Most digital single lens reflex (SLR) cameras have an APS-C sensor which is smaller than a frame of 35mm film. Because APS-C cameras are not full frame, each company has a specific lens focal length conversion (or crop) factor.
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Definition
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Full frame vs. APS-C cameras. Shoot a photo of a bridge with a full-frame camera and then take the exact same subject again with an APS-C camera. The resulting two pictures will not be identical. The full-frame image will include a greater portion of the bridge, while the APS-C shot will grab a narrower view or, essentially, look cropped.
Conversion Factor
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Camera brand determines the focal length conversion factor. The lens focal length conversion factor is 1.5x for Nikon, 1.6x for Canon and 2.0x for Olympus.
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Focal Length
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Nikons have a focal length conversion factor of 1.5x. What effect does the conversion factor have on the focal length of a lens? If you are using a 100mm lens on an APS-C Nikon, you multiply 100mm by the 1.5x conversion factor. The focal length of the lens now has the equivalent of 150mm.
Considerations
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APS-C cameras are less expensive. APS-C cameras are lighter and significantly less expensive than full-frame models.
Benefits
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Focal length conversion can enhance wildlife photography. You can use the focal length conversion factor to your advantage. When shooting wildlife, you will benefit from a more powerful telephoto lens. A 400mm lens used on an APS-C Canon is comparable to 640mm. The extra 240mm can be invaluable in capturing an elusive bird in flight.
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References
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