What is the primary use of a telephoto lens?

The primary use of a telephoto lens is to produce a large image of distant or small objects. Telephoto lenses are designed with a long focal length, which allows them to magnify subjects that are far away, making it possible to capture details that would be difficult to see with the naked eye. This characteristic is particularly valuable in photography where you want to isolate a subject from a distance, such as in wildlife or sports photography.

Telephoto lenses often compress the background and foreground, giving a unique perspective that adds depth to images. Their ability to bring distant subjects closer makes them a preferred choice for photographers who need to capture subjects from afar without sacrificing detail or clarity.