Haiyin Lin's First Impressions with the Petzval 55 mm f/1.7 MKII

For Haiyin Lin, being a portrait and fashion photographer allows her to travel across the world and see places with her camera. Apart from being a woman with a lens, she's also a talented violinist, hailing from Fudan University and Columbia University, constantly attuned to her artistic soul and emotions. Her true passion, however, calls for her as she switches to photography. Through her burning enthusiasm and strong interest in the arts, she has developed a seamless eye for soft and gentle imagery.

In this series, she tests out the Petzval 55 mm MKII on her various DSLRs -- Sony E, Canon RF and Nikon Z. See how she paints with spiralling bokeh with the classic Petzval aesthetic in this interview.

When did you learn of Lomography?

Hello, I am photographer Lin Haiyin, glad to share my photos in Lomography. I have heard of Lomography when I was studying in New York. I also have friends around playing Diana Camera. Later, my friends in Hong Kong recommended me Lomography offline shop, so I have known it for a long time.

What is your first impression of the Petzval 55 mm MKII ?

The character of the photographer is reflected in his work. Instead of pursuing a particular style, it is better to make yourself a person who wants to be.

As a fashion photographer, what is special about the Petzval in the various lenses that have been touched?

In the process of using it, it is a surprise. I never thought that the effect of the lens can be so natural, and the intensity can be adjusted. This kind of coke characteristics made the picture more interesting. When I finished shooting, the model also expressed surprise and happiness.

As a Sony user, this lens has an E-mount that can be directly attached to my camera body and is also very convenient to use. Later, I posted the photos on the Internet and was glad to know the images got positive responses.

What kind of photographer do you think would the Petzval 55 mm MKII be suitable for?

It can be used by both photography enthusiasts and professional photographers. Although this lens is a manual lens, it is very convenient to operate. Especially for people who have used film cameras and manual lenses before, this lens is still very fast. At the time of the shooting, I didn't feel that I would slow down the shooting speed because of the manual condition.

What's your photography concept and recent plans?

I like natural and soft portraits and like to look comfortable. I hope that my work is eye-catching, not a photo that is quickly outdated in order to chase the pop. In the second half of 2019, there were many overseas filming projects. Recently, I hope that I can take a walk in overseas countries after work, take time to shoot some subjects outside the portrait, and find new inspiration.

The character of the photographer will reflect on his work. Instead of pursuing a particular style, it is better to make yourself a person who wants to be. With more knowledge and experience, one's work will be more attractive.

Thanks for this opportunity in learning your experience with the Petzval 55 mm MKII, Haiyin! Make sure to follow her on Weibo and Instagram for more of her works!

written by gavintang on 2019-09-29 #gear #haiyin #petzval-55-mm-mkii