In the past, I have, on occasion, made fun of MJ’s camera skills. Don’t worry, it’s totally warranted. And I tried to help. I tried to explain a few DSLR camera-in-manual tips I figured out along the way but apparently, I spoke in some spouse-nonsense language he couldn’t understand. So when a family friend asked MJ to take a photo class with him, I was happy he decided to go.
Now, it’s not like MJ all of a sudden became Ansel Adams or Tim Hetherington. That wasn’t the point. A DSLR is quite the machine and it’s a shame to not learn how to use it better. While different from the way I take photos (weird self-taught person), he now recognizes the terms aperture, shutter speed, ISO and so on, and can manipulate them himself. Hurray!
In class packet, the instructor passed along recommendations for lenses and equipment. I was thankful for the list; I like to hear what actual photographers like to use. As a DIY blogger and a mother, I really like my 50mm lens. It makes that beautiful soft blur around the focal point and allows lots of light in making bright, light pics. It’s wonderful in low-light situations with its large aperture option which is great on Christmas morning or for evening birthday celebrations. However, it does have limitations because it’s a fixed lens; there is no zooming.
The list recommended a set of macro lens filters to connect to the 50mm for close up photography. For their low price, I couldn’t resist trying them. I’m still figuring them out but I think I like them. Here, I’ll show you what they do.
This is how close a 50mm can get to itty bitty sprinkles.
This is with 1x.
This is with 2x
This is 4x
And this is 10x. I haven’t quite figured this one out yet. It’s very magnified and soft.
The filters can be combined too. Like the 1x plus the 4x would be 5x magnification. Exciting stuff, right?
If you’re wondering, MJ ordered this Vivitar set (pick one that fits the width of the intended lens). I’m excited for at the prospects of getting up close and personal. I know. I’m weird. :)
Take care.
