CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

Having never used any of the aperture discs in the plastic optic, I decided to see what effect the different apertures would have. I went as far as f11, deciding f16 and f22 would be even clearer so wouldn't likely want to use those, since I use the Lensbabies for the effects. The flowers are el cheapo fakes from the Dollar Store, and the backdrop is a batik fabric.

In order to take the picture at f11, I had to move the camera back about 6" in order to be able to focus properly.

I then went out and took some quick landscapes with the f11 aperture disc.

I used my D750 set on aperture mode so the camera could meter through the Lensbaby and set the shutter speed and ISO automatically. (It will also meter in manual mode.) I didn't note the shutter speed or the ISO for the landscape shots... . Sorry about that!

F2 (no aperture disk), 1/25, ISO 400

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f2.8, 1/15, ISO 400

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f4, 1/10 ISO 400

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f5.6, 1/4 ISO 400

(Download)

f8, 1/2, ISO 400

(Download)

f11, 1", ISO 500

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Dixiegirl Loc: Alabama gulf coast

Another lovely demonstration, Cathy! Love them all with a preference from f/5.6 to f/11, and I especially like your street shots. Beautiful work!

angela k Loc: Long Island

Wonderful demo, Cathy, as usual... so informative!! I love the effect from f5 and up and your outside shots are terrific!!!! Next, add the macro converter to it!!
I'm looking forward to getting mine, maybe today and I have to admit, this optic does a great job, very similar effect to the velvet! Would you agree??

CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

Thank you for your great comment, Donna! I agree with you now that I've seen the results. When I think back to the pictures I've taken with this optic, not bothering to try any of the aperture discs, I can only shake my head. Live and learn, as the saying goes.

CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

I do agree, Angela! I'll have to try the macro converter with it. With the right sized aperture disc and the converter(s), there's a lot of adventure ahead. lol! Thank you for your great comment and thumbs!

jayway55 Loc: Philadelphia Area - USA

Thanks for another informative demo, Cathy. Very dramatic effect at the wider apertures of course, and I think the 5.6 is my favorite. Your background is gorgeous, and the landscape shots are very unique. I like how you've used your Plastic!
Jane

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Great way to experiment and learn! Silk flowers are good way to practice for sure. Then transfer on to real once we find a preference or something new. Really like the look of your landscapes! Super nice look. S

CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

Thank you so much, Jane, for the wonderful compliment! I had no idea exactly how the plastic optic would work at the smaller apertures or as a landscape lens. I didn't care for the extreme softness at f2 (wide open), and had set it aside until now. It sure pays to check it all out.

BTW, Lensbaby, on their website, has a refurbished plastic optic for sale.

CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

Thank you for the wonderful comment, Sandy. I appreciate it! I like the look of the landscapes with this optic too.

CLF Loc: Raleigh, NC

Sis, I really appreciate your education series like this one.

Bro/Greg

CathyAnn Loc: Apache Junction, AZ

I find I need to do such experiments so I can learn to use the optics better. Thank you, Bro, for the nice comment and thumbs.!