Old lens, Modern look
Why I Only Use Quality Vintage Lenses for My Best Headshots on Digital Cameras
In today’s world of high-tech, sharp digital lenses, it might seem strange to favor vintage glass for something as modern as headshots. But for me, the beauty and uniqueness of vintage lenses bring something special to my portraits that no modern lens can replicate.
Character and Imperfection
Vintage lenses have a personality that is hard to find in their modern counterparts. They create a beautiful, organic look with softer focus, unique bokeh, and subtle color shifts. These imperfections bring warmth and a timeless feel to headshots, elevating the subject beyond a sterile, pixel-perfect image.
Crisp Yet Dreamy
Many vintage lenses have a unique balance of sharpness and a pleasing softness. Unlike newer lenses that can sometimes be too clinical, a vintage lens creates an image that’s just sharp enough to highlight the subject’s features while maintaining a dreamy, flattering softness—perfect for close-up headshots where the subject's details matter but harsh sharpness can be distracting.
Unmatched Bokeh
The out-of-focus areas (bokeh) from vintage lenses often possess a distinct charm that is hard to replicate today. The bokeh shapes are rounder, softer, and more natural, which adds a subtle touch of elegance to headshots. This detail can make a huge difference in focusing attention on the subject’s face while creating a beautifully blurred background.
Build Quality
Many older lenses were built to last with robust materials, often with metal bodies and smooth manual controls. They just feel solid in your hands and offer a level of control that digital lenses don’t always match. The tactile experience of adjusting a manual focus ring also creates a deeper connection to the process of capturing the perfect shot.
In a world of hyper-sharp digital photography, using quality vintage lenses is my way of embracing a more artistic, soulful approach to headshots. It's not just about capturing a likeness; it’s about infusing each portrait with life, warmth, and character that stand out from the crowd.
If interested you can see my commercial work here!
