Nathan Wong Captures Natural Portraits with the Petzval 80.5 Bokeh Control Art Lens

Photography enthusiast Nathan used the Petzval 80.5 Bokeh Control Art Lens to capture wonderful portraits, pressing the shutter button in rhythm with a laid-back pace of life for this daydream-like photoshoot!

Hello Nathan! Could you introduce yourself to the readers of our Magazine?

Hello, I am Nathan, I am now a full-time photographer. I usually take portraits and landscapes in my daily life.

When did you first fall in love with photography?

I probably liked photography from a young age, but I really fell in love with it when the pandemic started three years ago and I had more time to take photos.

What is your most frequently used photography equipment? And how would you describe your photography style?

My most frequently used photography equipment is the Sony A1. In the past, my friends around me would say that my photos contains Japanese dreamy style, but I personally feel that my photography style leans towards a natural and comfortable style.

We invited you to try out the Petzval 80.5 Bokeh Control Art Lens this time. How do you feel about shooting with it??

I think this lens is very interesting to use because while regular manual lenses require adjusting the focus and aperture rings, this Petzval 80.5 Bokeh Control Art Lens has an additional spiral bokeh control ring. Although it may be more difficult to use (as adjusting the bokeh control ring requires readjusting the focus ring), I believe this lens can bring more enjoyment than regular manual lenses.

What features of the lens did you like the most?

Compared to other lenses, this lens provides a spinning bokeh effect that creates a dreamy look in photos, which cannot be achieved by other lenses.

The special-shaped bokeh is also unique, and different shapes can be achieved by adding special shape aperture plates to the lens. If I had to choose one, I would prefer to use the heart-shaped aperture plates.

Could you share some tips on taking portraits?

I think one of the key tips for taking portrait photos is to communicate with the model beforehand. For example, ask the model which side of their face they feel most comfortable with and would like to showcase. Also, shooting during the time of 4-6 pm outdoors is recommended as the lighting is usually optimal during this time for portrait photography.

In your opinion, what is the most important aspect of taking portraits?

I believe that the most important aspect of taking portraits is communication with the model. If there is no communication between the photographer and the model during the shoot, the model may not know how to pose or work with the photographer, resulting in the photos looking awkward. Therefore, I think the most important thing during the shoot is to talk to the model, make them feel comfortable, and create a relaxed atmosphere. This will help the model to feel more at ease and natural in front of the camera, resulting in better-looking photos.

Please share with us your favourite photo from this shoot and the reason why!

My favourite photo from this shoot is this one of the cat, because I already enjoy shooting against the light, and the swirly bokeh effect from the Petzval 80.5 Bokeh Control Art Lens makes it look very surreal. I like the dreamy feeling it gives off.

Follow Nathan on his Instagram profile to see all his works!

written by daioiyiu on 2023-09-02 #gear #people #interview #hong-kong #bokeh #asia #petzval-80-5-art-lens