Camera Field of View Calculator
Field of view describes the scene angle captured by a lens for a particular sensor dimension and focal length.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the active sensor width and height and the lens focal length in millimetres.
- Check that every input uses the stated units and covers the same period, population or project scope.
- Change one assumption at a time when comparing scenarios.
Formula used by camera field of view calculator
FOV = 2 arctan(sensor dimension ÷ (2 × focal length))
- FOV = 2 arctan(sensor dimension ÷ (2 × focal length))
- Crop mode, lens distortion, focus breathing, stabilization crop and sensor use can change real framing.
- Inputs are validated against the tool-specific constraints; displayed results are rounded for readability.
Worked examples
Worked example
A 36 mm wide sensor with a 50 mm focal length gives a horizontal field of view of about 39.6 degrees.
The calculator applies the rectilinear-lens approximation independently to sensor width, height and diagonal.
The calculator applies the rectilinear-lens approximation independently to sensor width, height and diagonal.
Understanding the result
Field of view describes the scene angle captured by a lens for a particular sensor dimension and focal length.
Crop mode, lens distortion, focus breathing, stabilization crop and sensor use can change real framing.
Important notes
Crop mode, lens distortion, focus breathing, stabilization crop and sensor use can change real framing.
Treat the result as an estimate for the assumptions entered; verify important specifications against the relevant source or professional guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Does focal length change with sensor size?
The lens focal length stays the same, but the field of view changes with the sensor area used.
Will this exactly match every lens?
No. It is a geometric estimate for a rectilinear lens and the stated active sensor dimensions.
How should I use this result?
Enter the active sensor width and height and the lens focal length in millimetres.
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This page provides a calculation tool plus explanatory information so you can understand what the result means and when the underlying method may not fit your situation.