kenievans Loc: Dallas

I recently watched a video on creative focus techniques and decided to try this one. Instead of moving the petals and leaves out from in front of the flower I wanted to shoot, I pressed the lens glass up against the petals in front and focused on the flower in back. I used my trusty 18-138mm lens at a focal length of 128mm f8, and single point focus. I have also been working on my overall focusing abilities and I was really pleased with how sharp this came out and the perspective through the petals.

I realize this forum is about post processing but I actually didn't do any major creative post processing and no filters or texture layers were applied. I can see where you could take it much further with some texture layers but I just wanted to share this creative focusing technique with you. The example I saw in the video was with smaller, lighter colored flowers and it gave it a very pretty ethereal look.

(Download)

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

Nice result! The only caution I'd share is if you get pollen on the lens, be careful about removing it. I think I read that you can scratch a lens with that stuff

I've tried the peek-a-boo ("looking through" ??) compositions a couple of times, but without much success. Appreciate your sharing this similar and well executed idea, Keni.

Curmudgeon Loc: SE Arizona

What a cool idea. I don't think I would risk the objective lens on my 70-300 but with a clear glass filter? I'll give it a try if the desert ever blooms again.

kenievans Loc: Dallas

Linda I have tried focusing through something before but always at a distance and it never worked for me. This way creates a soft effect that I like. I appreciate the heads up on the pollen. Didn't think about that. This is not something I would do often but it's nice to have in my little bag of tricks.

kenievans Loc: Dallas

If I remember correctly the instructor had a UV filter on their lens. I should have remembered that but I was taking a walk in my neighborhood with my camera and really hadn't planned on doing this. The opportunity just presented itself with the sunflowers.

Jim-Pops Loc: Granbury, Texas

I like the effect but worry about the lens after what Linda said about scratching.🥴

Curmudgeon Loc: SE Arizona

Canned compressed air should solve any problem but I would be careful about wiping the lens.

dpullum Loc: Tampa Florida

Your distortion via point of view - creative focus technique will go into my lens technique toolbox. Your work continues to be a tribute to you.

For those who are concerned about the lens contacting the subject, in this case, a flower having soft color, well lenses clean well, a little spit, and your shirttail. On the serious side, yes a UV filter is tough and semi expendable. As is shown by kenievans, the result is well worth the risk.

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

Interesting . . . .

NJFrank Loc: New Jersey

Very cool results. You continue to venture into different techniques. Keep the journey going.