Botanicals and Bokeh with Andrew Mclean and the Petzval 55 f/1.7 MKII Art Lens

UK-based wedding and portrait photographer Andrew Mclean tested out the Petzval 55 f/1.7 MKII Art Lens and visited the Sheffield Botanical Gardens to create the perfect background for some exaggerated bokeh effects. He made a YouTube video which documented this photo shoot and talked to us about his experiences of shooting with this creative art lens.

Hi Andrew, please tell us a bit about yourself and your photography style.

I’m a freelance photographer specializing in weddings, fashion and commercial photography. I really enjoy candid shots that aren’t over-planned and really telling a story with my images.

What did you choose to shoot with the Petzval 55 lens?

I chose to try this lens out with a good friend Sam who had just had quite a dramatic haircut! We shot at a beautiful location, Sheffield Botanical Gardens purposefully as I felt that the different plants and flowers would really work with the Petzval in creating some interesting bokeh.

How did you find shooting with this lens and the results?

I found the experience of shooting with this lens to be very similar to when I shoot film, the manual focusing really ensuring that I am methodical and precise with every single shot. It definitely has been a learning curve but I was very impressed with the results, especially the centre sharpness.

What tips would you give for someone wanting to shoot with this type of lens?

I would advise anyone thinking of shooting with this lens to make sure that they take the time to accustom themselves with the process of using it and also to make sure that they frame their subjects carefully to ensure that everything that they want in focus is in the sweet spot.

To see more of Andrew's work do check out his Instagram page.

2023-07-19 #gear #people #videos #portrait #uk #petzval #petzval-55