More Samyang 85mm!

Both of these taken with a tripod. I used AV f/1.4 and set the exposure to +2. WB is daylight. Slight PP with Picasa.
This lens, if you have the patience of both yourself and the model, produces awesome results.

Samyang 85mm

Taken in "room light" overhead warm light bulbs. F/1.4 Some PP. 


Taking pictures with this lens requires patience and skill. Its MF only, via the LV screen. You need to prop yourself up on a table or something for a steady shot - or use a tripod. The model needs to have the patience as well for the MF process.

Portrait Photography

I am learning from experience, that good portraits, are a function of several factors working together. Getting that "wow" shot requires patience, skill, and an ongoing learning process.


I would place them in order of importance:

• Good Light. This means the brightness, color, direction, and size of the light source. The bigger the better as far as the source, so a nice large window or softbox is much better then an on camera flash. Understanding lighting is the foundation of any kind of good portrait photography. I often use window light combined with reflectors.
• Understanding portrait composition, and getting the best out of your subject. This is an endless subject that takes time to learn and master. It differs from men to woman, children, teens, casual or formal shots, etc. etc. A well lit/exposed boring picture is so DULL.
• Understanding how to COMMUNICATE/INTERACT  with the model and put them at ease. This is SO VITAL. It takes a little patience and time to get that great shot, and you must create the atmosphere and mood to allow this. Pleasant ongoing dialogue is your friend.
• Coming prepared. This will allow you to minimize delays, and maintain the best atmosphere. Anything you can do up front to make things move along - will contribute. Camera, lens, lights, props, batteries,  reflectors, etc. Have it all in place. You might make use of an assistant as well to help move things along.
• Use common sense. When shooting a squirming child or impatient teen, make it short and sweet.
• Take lots of shots, from different angles. Its good to have variety.
• Make sure you get both horizontal and vertical shots.
• Pay close attention to the models attire. This is another subject to learn and master. Obviously if possible give some ahead of time instruction. Shooting guys in white shirts is boring.
• Use bright lenses that will allow you fast shutter speeds, and good bokeh.
• Use lens body combinations that give good image sharpness. The eyes are the most important. Blurry photos are the worst.
• Watch your white balance and exposure. Some people are pail skinned and others dark skinned. Each type requires its own appropriate in camera setup as far as picture style and exposure.

As a canon t2i shooter I use the canon 50mm f/1.4 as my first choice. If I have a more patient subject, I reach for the Samyang 85mm MF. Another superb option is the Canon 35L 1.4 for more full body shots, or Canon 60mm macro for head shots. Each one of these lenses has its own unique "Look".

More Zeiss 50mm macro planar

You need patience to bring out the best of this lens.

Zeiss 50mm macro planar

 

The diamond boy...

Not bad for a shot taken after midnight.

Yitzchok Elchonon

  

Camera Grip - New Rebel

I recently purchased a grip (canon) for the t2i. I must say that for me this was a very wise purchase.
The grip does 3 things - and it does them very well:

• The entire ergonomics of the somewhat small body of the t2i are much more comfortable. The grip adds weight which balances out larger lenses as well.
• Extended battery life X2 as it fits 2 batteries.
• The grip includes a side button for vertical shots common in portrait work.

I would highly recommend the grip for anyone like me, who has large hands, and wants the additional above value.

So.. the new t4i is here. As of now, I see no real reason for me to consider it, as I doubt it will have a substantial increase in IQ for stills. The only reason I would consider it is the improved AF, however that too may be trivial for my style of shooting, which is stills, using the center AF point only.

Jerusalem Of Light

Light show near old city

Misc Shots

Samyang 85mm

Samyang 85mm

Zeiss 50mm macro planar

Zeiss 50mm macro planar

Zeiss 50mm macro

Zeiss 50mm macro