lens chimping

lens chimping 

lots of sample images and various photos explaining the versatility of using a convex lens to transform your images here at

http://www.samhurdphotography.com/2014/technique/photography-techniques-lens-chimping

and here

http://petapixel.com/2014/01/15/introducing-lens-chimping-creative-new-photography-technique/

Now it’s time for my latest technique: I call it lens chimping.

I call it that because it’s accomplished by shooting through a hand-held convex lens element in front of the lens on your camera. The resulting effect is a delicious blend of reflections and circularly shaped light orbs with a bit of a freelens/prism blended look — but Unlike a prism you won’t get any straight forward reflections.

This is kind of a natural continuation from prisming as the techniques are largely the same but give very different looks. I also prefer the simple convex lens because it fits much better in a pocket and doesn’t confuse airport security guards.

It’s a really easy way to add some interest to those usually static “getting ready” photos of people sitting in chairs. Though, it’s probably best to use the technique in a situation where you have a lot of control … like portraits.