I finally broke down and bought a 50mm lens for my Nikon D60. The D60 doesn’t have a motor that will auto-focus this lens, so I have to rely on my eyes, which are pretty good. There was another 50mm lens that came with a motor, but that one was cost prohibitive at over $500. I figured eventually I will upgrade my camera body to one that will auto focus the cheaper 50mm lens. Until I can do that, I’ll keep my eyes healthy by eating bushels of carrots.
One thing I didn’t count on was how difficult it would be to take a self portrait with this lens. Without the auto-focus, I end up doing a lot of educated guessing. I needed to send someone a picture no later than this afternoon, which sucked. I completely underestimated how difficult it would be to work instinctively with such a shallow depth of field. After a dozen failed attempts, I put Mikey to work when he got home from school.
This picture isn’t the best picture I have ever taken, and that’s after I edited out a few blemishes and some between the brows wrinkles. But, I have to say, I can’t complain knowing a 6 year old took this with manual focus (he was using a tripod). We did some practicing where I held out the camera remote and had him make the logo go blurry and then sharp, which helped him understand the mechanics. Then I hunkered down on the ground and told him to focus on my eyes and make them super, super clear.
He did a pretty good job! My eyes aren’t perfectly sharp, but close enough that most people won’t notice. I think the best part was his coaching. I had just leaned over on my left hand to try a different angle when Mikey immediately started clicking, all the while exclaiming, “I think this is it, mom! I really like how your hair is going on in this position!”
Wow! He’s a natural. I think this is a great picture.
You are beautiful! (and yes, Mikey did a great job)
Did you get the 50 mm/1.8? Because I got that one for Christmas and I have to auto focus it and it can be hit or miss at times. When I get a really great shot, it is really really great, but sometimes there are more misses than hits. Definitely need more practice!
I did, but mine does not auto focus because of my camera body. You have to do it manually, like in the 70s! I believe the D90 will auto focus.
The D90 does autofocus, I’ve got a D80 and with the 50 mm lens am able to take some beautiful portrait shots.
Your picture is beautiful and I love that you’re looking up.
Art is here with me surfing blogs and he starts asking who you are. I say this is Jules, you know Jules. And he asks what you are talking about and I tell him you just bought a new lens for your Nikon and he says “she bought a lens for that camera, can you even give those away?” He is a Canon man if you couldn’t tell and he is just joshing you. Seriously just kidding :)Your picture is purty and I think Mikey did a smashing job. Smashing I say!
hahahah how cute! Kids are so funny!! He did take a good picture considering no auto focus!
Gurrrrrllll. Wowsie. Great pic. And fabo photographer.
I have to agree with Susie (us Texas gals know good hair) and you look smashing.
Mikey is super–I love the comment about your hair being in the right position:)
I think he did an amazing job! Probably better than most adults could do. And your eyes and hair DO look great! Cute story ;)
Live the picture! Your little guy did a great job. Hope you are having a nice weekend. Take care!
Oops! I meant to say “love” the photo. Darn auto correct feature. Anyhow, your son must be proud of you. :-)
I really like how your hair is going on on to! Very pretty!
Wow Jules! I’m impressed. You are beautiful and Mikey captured it beautifully! I wish I could take that great of a pic! Would Mikey consider teaching me?? LOL
So cute! (The story and the picture!) :)
The 50mm is my favorite lens – so versatile. f/1.8 will change your life. Remember to shoot for the edges! If you have trouble with the manual focus, fiddle with your diopter setting. Have fun! :)
What a lovely photo! And so handy to have your own, personal photographer!
I attempted to take my own photo a few weeks ago. First off, my tripod is missing parts, so I just have to set my camera atop the frame. Secondly, I have no remote. So, I had squat, set, run around, plop down, and smile … which never really worked so well. I tried for about an hour … I was completely crippled the next day … and all for naught. Sigh.
That’s why I ran out and bought a 50mm and a tripod! I spent over an hour taking pictures of myself with the camera set on the trashcan, and was horrified by the results. Let’s just say my double chin needed the downward angle and I couldn’t get it without the tripod. :/
GO.R.GE.OU.S! Good job Mikey!
you’re beautiful! this picture is wonderful, and even more so because it’s something you and your son worked on together. what a fabulous memory!
Wow.. what a great picture!!
I also need to say thank you. Thank you for telling me you photo-shopped some mid-center-brow wrinkles. You were making me feel horribly wrinkly today. :) I’m not sure I believe you, but I’m going to take you at your word, for now.
I used picnik to make myself younger. I took out the wrinkle in between my brows (I have one, on my right), one blemish on my chin, and softened up the dark circles under my eyes + blurred up the bags so you can’t see them as much. Oh! And I scrunch up my nose when I smile so I got rid of one pucker/wrinkle of skin I get on my left when I do that.
After I did all that and sent it, I kicked myself for forgetting to use the “instant thinner” button on Picnik, too. Hah!
You take great portraits, lady.
And Mikey is significantly better at getting clear eyes than I am.