Using affordable lenses to create high-end photography results can seem challenging, but it's entirely possible with the right techniques.
Coming to you from Irene Rudnyk, this engaging video is full of practical advice on using affordable gear, particularly how to make budget lenses look as good as expensive ones. By capturing as much depth as possible in your images, you can create a creamy, dreamy bokeh effect. Including elements at different distances from the lens helps achieve this depth. For instance, positioning bushes and branches at varying distances from the lens adds layers and makes the image look more three-dimensional. Additionally, backlighting your subject can further separate them from the background, enhancing this effect.
The video also demonstrates how to deal with backlit photos where stray hairs can become a distraction. Using Photoshop's generative fill, you can easily clean up these imperfections. Simply select the areas you want to fix with the lasso tool, use generative fill, and let Photoshop work its magic. This method ensures your images remain natural-looking while removing unwanted elements.
Another interesting point is about choosing the right lens for your shots. Rudnyk prefers not to use lenses longer than 100mm. The reason is the increased distance from the model and excessive compression, which can sometimes be too much for her style.
Throughout the shoot, Rudnyk shares her thought process, adjusting angles, and trying different compositions to get the best results. As you'll see, adaptability and willingness to experiment are crucial, allowing you to find the perfect angle and lighting. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Rudnyk.
