Listen "The Language of lenses"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Visium we demystify the world of camera lenses by tracing their origins back to a medieval Venetian monk struggling to read. Drawing parallels between our intuitive understanding of everyday physics (like how objects appear smaller with distance) and the fundamental principles of optics, we find that lenses aren't as complex as their reputation suggests. Through accessible examples ranging from the camera obscura to the human eye, we demonstrate how most of us already possess the foundational knowledge to understand these tools that shape every image we see, whether in photography, film, or even realistic paintings.
The episode takes a turn when we discover that lenses are actually not needed to create photographs, a simple hole in a wall can project an image, proving that understanding light behavior is more crucial than memorizing technical specifications. Mastering lenses isn't about technical complexity but about understanding how these tools can serve storytelling. By demystifying concepts like focal length, aperture, and light transmission, this episode empowers filmmakers to move beyond the intimidation factor and engage meaningfully with one of cinema's most fundamental creative decisions.
The episode takes a turn when we discover that lenses are actually not needed to create photographs, a simple hole in a wall can project an image, proving that understanding light behavior is more crucial than memorizing technical specifications. Mastering lenses isn't about technical complexity but about understanding how these tools can serve storytelling. By demystifying concepts like focal length, aperture, and light transmission, this episode empowers filmmakers to move beyond the intimidation factor and engage meaningfully with one of cinema's most fundamental creative decisions.
More episodes of the podcast Visium: The Hidden Language of Images
Unforgettable Images
20/03/2025
Unforgettable Images
20/03/2025
The Visual Story
02/04/2025
From Words to Images
16/04/2025
The Visual Strategy
30/04/2025
Narrative Perspective
14/05/2025
Placing the Camera
28/05/2025
Selecting A Lens
26/06/2025
The Perfect Lens
08/07/2025
The Cinematic Composition
23/07/2025
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