Working distance (photography)

Different working distance for the same image scale with short and long focal length

Shadowing of the built-in flash unit if the distance is too close

With working distance is in the photograph , the distance between the front lens of the camera lens and the designated object to be photographed.

The working distance is of particular importance in macro photography and close-up photography . Depending on the lens focal length and construction used and the desired image scale, the distance between lens and subject can shrink to a few centimeters, some cameras allow you to approach up to less than one centimeter (from the front lens). Such short distances have an impact on the perspective and on the other hand on the lighting options - the camera casts its own shadow on the object, built-in or attached flash units shine past the subject. Furthermore, the escape distance for small animals can also be undercut.

Depending on the lens design, the working distance does not necessarily correspond to the distance setting minus the length of the lens and camera. If the working distance becomes too small, there are several ways to increase it:

• For cameras with a built-in zoom lens, by setting the longest telephoto focal length or by using a teleconverter . However, the macro function of many compact cameras is limited to the wide-angle position.
• In cameras with interchangeable lenses also by using a lens with a long focal length, optionally in combination with close-up lenses , intermediate rings or a bellows ;
• Also only for cameras with interchangeable lenses by using a normal or wide-angle lens in retro position .