When it comes to 4x5 architectural (exterior) photography, why do so many experienced shooters recommend a 90mm lens for general use?

No other lens wins so much of their praise and affection.

It’s enough to make one think that architects have this focal length in mind when they select building sites & draw their plans.

I can almost see the spec at the bottom of the blueprint: Site selected & plans drawn to accommodate a 90mm lens on 4x5 film.

• Is there something inherently natural & pleasing about this match (90mm + architecture)?
• Does the trade-off between field-of-view & distortion help explain things?
• Might common client preferences have something to do with all this?
• Do you think the 90mm lens would enjoy the same popularity across architectural styles & cultures – for example, Prairie School, Anasazi, Byzantine, Greco-Roman, etc.?

Please share with us what you think...