Lenses are among the most important creative tools in photography. Whether it’s an ultra-wide-angle, standard zoom, fast prime, or super-telephoto lens—every focal length affects far more than just the frame. It alters our perception of space, scale, proximity, and distance, and thus has a decisive influence on the impact of the image.
In this seminar, participants will learn not only to understand focal lengths as a technical characteristic of a lens, but also to use them purposefully as a creative tool. The focus is on determining which focal length best supports the desired visual message and how a deliberate choice of focal length can be used to create a sense of dynamism, tranquility, depth, or atmosphere.
A special focus is placed on the interplay between focal length, perspective, and vantage point. Using numerous examples, the course demonstrates how the appearance of a subject can vary simply based on the choice of lens. Together, we’ll analyze typical shooting situations and explore how different focal lengths affect the sense of space, perspective, and the overall impact of the image. The focus here isn’t on universal rules, but on making conscious photographic decisions that strengthen your own visual language.
In addition, the course addresses common misconceptions surrounding wide-angle and telephoto photography. Participants will learn when a wide-angle lens creates a sense of intimacy and dynamism, when a telephoto lens compresses the scene and brings a sense of calm to the image, and how both can be used strategically to convey different photographic messages.
The workshop is designed for photographers of all skill levels and genres—from landscape and nature photography to street and documentary photography, and even portrait photography. After the 2.5-hour session, participants will not only understand the effects of different focal lengths, but will also be able to choose lenses more consciously and control their image composition in a targeted way to create more emotional, exciting, and expressive photos.
About Daniel Spohn
Daniel Spohn combines scientific expertise with a pronounced passion for nature photography. As a qualified biologist, he understands the interrelationships in ecosystems down to the last detail – knowledge that has a decisive influence on his photographic work. His images are created with patience, respect and a keen sense for the right moment.
A particular focus of his work is on native wildlife, especially bird and macro photography. He succeeds not only in creating aesthetically impressive images, but also in telling stories about behavior, habitats and the protection of nature.
In his workshops, Daniel Spohn teaches practical photographic techniques as well as in-depth background knowledge from the field of biology. Participants benefit from his trained eye for motifs, his understanding of light and behavior as well as numerous tips from photographic practice.
Seminar information
- Speaker: Daniel Spohn
- Suitable for: Beginners and advanced
- Minimum number of participants: 25
- Maximum number of participants: 150
- What to bring: Nothing is needed – except possibly something to take notes with
- Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
- When: Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Where: Nuremberg Exhibition Center, NCC West, Room London, 2nd floor (barrier-free)
- Price: 59€
- Note: The price of the seminar includes a weekend trade fair ticket worth €25
Experience more at Imaging World 2026
Imaging World 2026 is much more than a single workshop: you can expect a whole weekend full of photography, content creation, video, creativity and inspiration – with exciting program items, strong brands and many opportunities to try out new things directly.
Your weekend ticket includes access to the entire trade fair:
- further workshops and events in the fields of photography, video, lighting, business and content creation
- exciting stage program with lectures, live talks and inspiration for your photography
- creative playgrounds where you can directly experience technology, sets and new image ideas
- leading exhibitors and brands from the photo and imaging industry
- Imaging World photo competition, where you can submit your best pictures
- Free camera check & clean for your equipment on site
This will turn your workshop visit into an entire trade fair experience: you will learn new techniques, gather creative ideas, test equipment, meet like-minded people and take home lots of inspiration.
Plan your personal Imaging World weekend now and discover all the highlights around workshops, stage, playgrounds, exhibitors, photo competition and free services.