Exploring Vintage Lenses Through Maternity Portraits

Exploring Vintage Lenses Through Maternity Portraits

Recently, I decided to try something a little different with my portrait photography. I wanted to experiment with maternity portraits using vintage lenses and see how their distinctive rendering could influence the finished images.

There’s something about older lenses that I’ve always loved. They’re not necessarily technically perfect, but that’s part of their appeal. The way they handle light, their softness and sometimes unpredictable flare can give photographs a character that’s difficult to replicate.

Experimenting with Vintage Lenses

Kirstin was the last mum-to-be I photographed as part of this little project, and what a lovely way to finish.

Each session gave me the opportunity to get to know the lenses a little better, work out their strengths and limitations, and try things I might not normally do during a portrait session.

One of the biggest challenges was getting the focus just right. Modern lenses have definitely spoiled us with their fast and accurate autofocus! Working with manual focus meant slowing down, paying closer attention and occasionally accepting that not every frame would be perfectly sharp.

But when everything came together, I loved the results.

The Character of Vintage Lenses in Maternity Portraits

What appeals to me most is the way these lenses render an image. The beautiful flare when shooting into the sun, the softer transitions between highlights and shadows, and the distinctive background blur all bring something a little different to the photographs.

For Kirstin’s session, I used a mixture of the Helios 44 and Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 135mm. And when I needed a little modern assistance, I reached for my Canon RF 85mm f/1.2.

It’s interesting comparing the results. Each lens has its own character, and I enjoyed seeing how differently they interpreted the same light and surroundings.

A Little More Vintage Glass in the Future

After these sessions, I’m keen to incorporate vintage lenses into more of my portrait work. They won’t replace my modern lenses, but I love having another creative option when the light and setting suit it.

And if I get really brave, I might even bring one along to a wedding!

Thank you, Kirstin, for trusting me and giving me the freedom to experiment. It was such an enjoyable session, and I’m really pleased with the photographs we created.

If you’re interested in maternity portraits with vintage lenses or simply love photographs with a little extra character, you’re welcome to get in touch. I’d love to hear what you have in mind.

Jodie Potter Photography https://jodiepotter.com.au/