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Photography With Tilt and Shift Lenses


Synopsis


Tilt and shift lenses offer tremendous creative possibilities for users of digital SLR and mirrorless cameras. This practical book explains the techniques that will help you take better photos - photos that don't distort or lose focus. Assessing the benefits and pitfalls of a range of lenses, adapters, software and editing techniques, it guides you through the practicalities of working with these lenses and gives you the skills to use them to best effect. With stunning examples throughout, this book gives an overview of the different lenses available, and tips on how adapters can give tilt/shift options when using old medium-format lenses. It gives advice on how simple lens shift can change the entire look of your photos, and techniques for using lens tilt for focus control and close-up working. Stunning examples show the use of tilt and shift lenses across a range of available focal lengths, both tripod-mounted and handheld.

Keith Cooper

Summary

Chapter 1: Understanding Tilt and Shift Lenses

Tilt and shift lenses are specialized lenses that allow for precise adjustments in perspective and focus. They are primarily used in architecture, landscape, and commercial photography. This chapter discusses the principles of tilt and shift, including:

* Tilt: Allows for adjusting the plane of focus, creating selective focus or eliminating converging verticals.
* Shift: Enables moving the lens up, down, left, or right relative to the image plane, correcting for perspective distortion.

Chapter 2: Choosing a Tilt and Shift Lens

Selecting the right tilt and shift lens depends on the desired effects and camera system. This chapter covers:

* Types of tilt and shift lenses available
* Compatibility with different camera mounts
* Key specifications to consider, such as focal length and maximum tilt/shift range

Example:
For архитектурная фотография, a lens with a wide focal length (e.g., 17-35mm) and a substantial tilt/shift range would allow for capturing tall buildings without converging verticals or dramatic perspective effects.

Chapter 3: Basic Techniques

This chapter introduces the fundamental techniques for using tilt and shift lenses:

* Shifting for Perspective Correction: Correcting converging verticals in architectural photography.
* Tilting for Selective Focus: Creating a shallow depth of field in landscape photography while keeping the entire scene sharp.
* Combining Tilt and Shift: Combining both techniques to achieve complex perspective and focus adjustments.

Example:
In landscape photography, shifting the lens upward can flatten the horizon, removing converging lines and presenting a more panoramic view.

Chapter 4: Advanced Techniques

For experienced photographers, this chapter explores advanced techniques:

* Scheimpflug Principle: Understanding the relationship between the tilt, focus plane, and depth of field.
* Bokeh Control: Using tilt to control the shape and quality of bokeh (background blur).
* Stereoscopic Imaging: Creating three-dimensional images using tilt and shift lenses.

Example:
Using the Scheimpflug Principle in portrait photography can create a shallow depth of field that isolates the subject while maintaining sharp focus on their eyes and background elements.

Chapter 5: Specialized Applications

This chapter showcases specific applications where tilt and shift lenses excel:

* Architecture: Preventing converging verticals, creating expansive views, and enhancing architectural details.
* Landscape: Eliminating perspective distortion, controlling focus, and capturing panoramic scenes.
* Commercial: Creating impactful product shots, flattening perspective for food photography, and correcting distortion for product catalogs.

Example:
In product photography, shifting the lens downward can flatten the perspective, making the product appear larger and more visually appealing.

Chapter 6: Accessories and Workflow

This chapter covers essential accessories and workflow tips:

* Accessories: Lens hoods, adapters, and support systems.
* Workflow: Using live view for precise adjustments, understanding image stitching, and post-processing techniques.

Example:
Using a sturdy tripod and geared head ensures precise tilt and shift adjustments, minimizing camera shake and accidental movement.