One way we like to test gear is to see if we can set it up and use it without reading any directions. Well-designed gear is intuitive in their layout, interface, and usability. The Lensbaby is such a piece of gear.
In this FirstUse, we want to show some of the photos we took with the lens just after a few minutes of messing around. It is a tribute to how well thought out the knobs and controls are on this strange looking lens.
I went home for Father's Day this past weekend and took the lens with me. Remembering the discarded collection of old models collecting dust in the attic, I thought it would be interesting to see them through the Lensbaby. After seeing the results, everything (silk flowers, paintings) became possible subjects :-)
It was easy to see the effects of manipulating the focus plane because the results can be seen in the view finder. Estimating proper exposure took a little more trial and error. Being able to shoot digitally definitely made working this type of lens much easier. I now have much more appreciation of those who shoot with a field camera!
As with a field camera, with the Lensbaby, there is no autofocus. Apeture is controlled by physically changing discs with different size holes. Shutter speed is maually controlled via the camera. The Lensbaby mounts like any other lens, but the similarity to most modern lenses ends there. We'll have more comments about using the Lensbaby after some of the other folks here have had a chance to play with it...assuming they can convince me to hand it over. [Permalink] - Wan Chi Lau
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