A wide-angle lens is a type of camera lens that has a shorter focal length, allowing it to capture a broader field of view. This makes it ideal for photographing landscapes, architecture, and large groups of people, as it can include more of the scene in a single shot. Wide-angle lenses can create a sense of depth and perspective, making objects in the foreground appear larger while compressing the background. They are commonly used in photography and videography, especially in genres like landscape photography and real estate photography, where capturing expansive views is essential.