Envy - Canon Rebel T1i, 85mm f1.8 at f1.8, 1/320sec, ISo 200
As mentioned in the previous post, portrait lenses and telephotos in general have a very interesting way of simplifying the background behind the subject reducing an otherwise clutter-filled scene into a pleasing image.
There are four ways to increase that effect:
- Open up the aperture (I usually shoot wide open at f1.8)
- Move closer to the subject
- Move subject further away from the background
- Use a longer focal length
For this particular shot, the subject is standing just in front of a background of bamboo reeds. I tried to shoot through the gate but the "beauty in a cage" look was a bit tacky. I used a 85mm (136mm on APS-C sensors) at f1.8 and still managed to get a really nice and soft background yet one that is distinct enough to the viewer. In fact, to keep that "Amazonian Beauty" look, it was important not to blur the background into oblivion. Had I moved closer to the subject, or moved her further away from the background, or used a longer lens, the background would have been green mush.
I think I like this one better. The twisted skin at her neck is not flattering, but I don't think it could be avoided, given the angle of her shoulder. But this image seems much "crisper" and makes those oh-so-lovely eyes quite bewitching.
ReplyDeleteDid the previous image have any softening done to it? This one really seems sharper to me. Or could it be flare in the previous image?
Thanks for the lighting diagram.