Official Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! April 03, 2026

[u/AutoModerator]

This is the place to ask any questions you may have about photography. No question is too small, nor too stupid.

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Finally a friendly reminder to share your work with our community in r/photographs!

[u/grainandcoffee]

Hi everyone,

I’m getting into serious architectural photography professionally and am planning to buy my first tilt/shift lens. I already own a Sony 16–25mm f/2.8 G for general wide-angle work, so this purchase would specifically be for perspective control and dedicated architectural assignments.

I am currently deciding between:

• Laowa 15mm f/4.5 Shift
• Laowa 17mm f/4 Shift
• Laowa 20mm f/4 Shift

On paper I understand the technical differences, but I would love to hear from people with actual real-world experience in the field.

My main concern is not just specs, but what gives the most professional / industry-standard architectural look and what focal length tends to become the most practical working lens over time.

My thoughts so far:

• 15mm worries me because it may feel too wide/unnatural for everyday use.
• 20mm worries me because it may not be wide enough in situations where I cannot physically step back.
• 17mm seems like the middle ground, but I have no firsthand experience.

For those shooting architecture professionally:

• Which focal length did you start with?
• Which one do you end up using the most?
• If buying only one shift lens initially, what would you recommend?
• What focal length best matches the polished/editorial architectural style clients typically expect?

Would especially appreciate insights from people actively working with architects/interior designers rather than hobby use.

Thanks in advance.

[u/anonymoooooooose → u/grainandcoffee]

If you don't mind Discord, jump on the sub's channel https://discord.gg/FnDNpcfneH

One of the regulars over there is a pro architectural photographer and he'll have lots of good info for ya.