First Impressions of the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens: Arlok Lam

Hong Kong-based photographer Arlok Lam presented refreshing Lomo’Instant Wide portraits to our fellow community before. This time, she used the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens to play with Pantone colours and bring some sunny romance to her portraits.

This lens has a fascinating history, so let’s play the association game. What came to mind when you first saw the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens? What is special about its build?

Petzval is undoubtedly one of the most interesting lenses in recent years. When I saw the similar brass look of the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens, I got excited about what it could bring to my photography.

What did you take pictures of? What camera did you use?

I took portraits of my friends in a way that I understood them. This time, I wanted to show them in their relaxed and comfortable state. Therefore, I shot this series in pastel-coloured spots and my secret hiding place. I used Sony A7S for the shoot.

Did the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens impart a special look to your photos? Tell us about your first photo session.

Daguerreotype Achromat Art Lens is a very retro lens. The hazy bokeh reminds me of studio pictures when I was young. The special aperture plates really gave an amazing bokeh effect. However, I like to shoot without any aperture plates and hood. I think this can bring out the best of the lens. Also, 50mm is my favourite focusing distance, so it is easier for me to work with the 64mm Daguerreotype Achromat Art Lens.

The lens is a continuation of Lomography’s experimental tradition. What special effects have you done using the lens?

I made use of soft and glowing lights to complement my friends’ faces.

Why use a special lens at all?

A good lens is crucial in creating good work in photography. It also helps bring out the main focus of the picture. More importantly, we already have thousands of lens that generate sharp and detailed images. As a being living in reality, these special lenses help us escape to wonderlands.

Let’s get technical. What tip would you give to a first-time user?

Just experiment with the different aperture plates to create dreamy images. The effect is more outstanding when you walk closer to your subject.

To know more about Arlok Lam, visit the following pages:

Facebook Page: ArlÖkLam Photography
Instagram Account: arloklam
Personal Website: ArLÖkLam Photography

2016-04-30 #gear #news #daguerreotype #achromat #artlens #lomographyartlenses #daguerreotype-achromat-art-lens