Because you can interchange the three front lens components to shoot with a fixed focal length of 35mm, 50mm or 80mm; shoot exceptionally sharp images; and insert the special aperture plates to edge your frame in delicate bokeh, the Neptune Convertible Art Lens system offers unlimited stylistic possibilities. Here are some tips for maximizing the creative potential of your Art Lens System.
Each lens has its optimal maximum aperture — f/3.5 for Thalassa, f/2.8 for Despina and f/4.0 for Proteus. But with Thalassa and Proteus, you can bypass this optimal maximum aperture to experiment and create unique effects. See what happens the colors and sharpness of your shot when you shoot at f/2.8 with Thalassa, or f/3.5 with Proteus.
One of the great strengths of a 35mm focal length is that you can get loads in focus — especially at smaller apertures from f/4 or f/5.6 and above. This makes it ideal for towering landscapes, cityscapes or architecture. In terms of technique, let this frame your shots — don’t stay put. Move around, step back, step forward, crouch down. Interact with your surroundings and subject, and always stay on your toes — composure in photography is a key skill to learn.
AAttach Thalassa to the lens base and head to the nearest city with someone willing to pose. Find a bustling spot filled with vibrant neon lights and place your subject in the center of it. Insert one of the special aperture plates, switch to f/3.5, and capture your model. They’ll be framed by a beautiful bokeh backdrop bursting with color and delicate neon shapes.
With a closest focusing distance of 0.4m, Despina allows for smart use of detail. If you’re shooting fashion, focus on some stand-out features in the couture, specific pieces in the styling, accessories — or even props from the set design. The 50mm focal length will allow you to strike the perfect balance between intricate detail and surrounding context.
Because 50mm gives you that not-too-wide not-too-shallow sweet spot, Despina encourages you to perfect your framing. Learn to see more than the center focusing point — pay attention to the things to the side and in the outer areas of the image. Get to know the rule of thirds, and experiment with asymmetry.
Because objects tend to look closer through an 80mm focal length, Proteus lets you shoot with a flattering ‘compression’ effect. Backgrounds appear larger and landscapes more towering, meaning that you can take breathtaking shots of mountains, trees, waterfalls or even the moon.
Because Proteus shoots at such a shallow depth of field, you’ll get plenty of soft, out-of-focus areas in your shot, especially at smaller apertures. This makes it the ideal focal length to test out the special aperture plates. Altering the shape and size of the aperture will transform the texture of your shot. It’s especially beautiful on busy backgrounds, whether floral, mosaic, leafy or city. Get creative and experiment.
Insert one of the special aperture plates, switch to the maximum aperture, and shoot into the light. Your shot will be peppered with beautiful little bokeh shapes.