Whether you’ve got a drawer full of old and unloved lenses, or you just want to take some photos that have a bit of character, using legacy glass is a great way to get creative, and in this project we’ll show you how to go vintage.
Rummaging through the loft or the stands at a car boot sale can be a photographer’s dream – you can uncover all kinds of weird and wonderful optics that are simply begging to be given a new lease of life. Many vintage lenses possess character that’s often missing from modern options, from unique vignetting and bokeh effects to the way they render contrast and colour; older lenses can also be a great way to shoot at apertures like f/1.2, at a fraction of the cost of modern equivalents.
This story is from the February 24, 2022 edition of Photography week.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 24, 2022 edition of Photography week.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
CANON RF 24-105MM F/2.8L IS USM Z
A standard lens is reborn
MASTER DODGING AND BURNING
James Paterson shows you how to use these essential tools for old-school darkroom-style image enhancements
TRACKSIDE TIPS AND TRICKS
Chris Nevard explains how you can capture photorealistic images of model railways on a budget
THESE FOOD PHOTOS WILL MAKE YOUR MOUTH WATER
Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year announces shortlist for 2024 contest
30 TIPS FOR SHOOTING SUPER SHOTS THIS SPRING
Pro photographer Simon Roy reveals his key techniques
AKASO LAUNCHES AFFORDABLE BRAVE 8 LITE ACTION CAMERA
Budget model arrives with new features include HDR and Hindsight modes
VILTROX AF 27MM F1.2 PRO
A 'pro' lens with a consumer price tag
HOW TO...MASTER SHADOWS AND HIGHLIGHTS
This powerful tool has more to it than meets the eye, and it's ideal for landscapes
PATCHWORK PORTRAITS
Mike Harris uses the Brenizer method to shoot and edit a bokeh panorama with a super-shallow depth of field
PHOTO CONTEST CELEBRATES BRITAIN'S NATURAL WONDERS
British Wildlife Photography Awards feature amazing images of fauna and flora