Monday 08 February 2016

How shallow can you go

I have had an interesting evening torn between two shots I took today. Same subject and almost the same pose but one with what may be considered too shallow a depth of field but which I prefer.

](http://www.hyam.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160208-Ian_Edwards_f1.4.jpg) Fujinon XF56mm @ f1.4 - my preferred shot

It is testing my artistic integrity - pompous though it sounds.  I have "it doesn't have to be in focus" ringing in my head but I am afraid that if I release the one where the subject's nose, mouth and chin are soft people will say "ooh it is out of focus". On the other hand I know that the soft shot feels more powerful.

One of my problems is that releasing something electronically I have no idea how it will be viewed and the difference I see in the prints in front of me may not be perceived in the same way. Perhaps I should stick to physical media only.

Meanwhile you can enjoy (or not) both images here - on whatever device you are using.

](http://www.hyam.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160208-Ian_Edwards_f3.2.jpg) Fujinon XF56mm @ f3.2 - more is sharp

I file this under technolust as well as photography because of the sheer pleasure of using my Fujinon XF56mm f1.2. It is like carrying around a large glass jar of jam compared to my other lenses but so lovely to use.