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35mm Equivalent

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Definition: 35mm equivalent is a reference to the digital camera's ability to simulate the 35mm-wide film format.

When listed in a series of digital camera specifications, 35mm equivalent refers to the focal length of the lens in the digital camera, as it compares to a 35mm film camera lens. In the specifications, the 35mm equivalent typically is listed as a range of measurements, such as 28mm-280mm.

If the digital camera lens has a measurement less than 35mm, it's considered a wide-angle capability. Any measurement more than 70mm is considered a telephoto capability. A measurement of about 50mm is considered to be similar to human vision.

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