The Softness of the Portrait with the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens, by Laurence Guenoun

You may have already seen some of Laurence Guenoun's photos in the pages of our Magazine. Today, the photographer is back for a new interview about her shots taken with our Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens. Laurence has created several series of portraits of men, so we asked her a few questions about her use of our lens and her vision of portraiture, which she sees as a “dance for two.”

Hello Laurence, let's talk about your latest photos made with the Daguerreotype Achromat. Why did you want to test this lens?

I really wanted to test the Daguerreotype because above all, I wanted softness. Digital results in a very “sharp” image and I wanted to find some velvetiness. It was ideal.

What was the most striking thing about using the lens?

First of all, changing the aperture with the small plates. I had a lot of fun with that. Then, I must admit that I had to experiment a lot with my settings, changing the plate to get a more precise result depending on the light. It is a bit onerous but I love the end result.

What camera did you use? And what did the Daguerreotype allow you to do differently than your usual lenses?

I used my Nikon D850. I would have liked to do some outdoor work with it and also test it on one of my Nikon film cameras but I didn't get the chance. Another time. It’s very different to focus than my usual lenses. It required a lot more concentration to be accurate. I also had to accept having some blur.

In terms of your photographic needs, what are your favorite features of the Daguerreotype Art Lens?

The smoothness. The velvetiness of the image. This is really what I was looking for and I was totally seduced.

What were your inspirations for your series of portraits made with the lens?

I went looking for images that I can't get spontaneously with my usual equipment. There's a little “David Hamilton” feel to it, but I'm not really into photographing young girls. I liked the idea of velvetiness on men, a kind of increased sensitivity.

Do you have any tips to share about portrait photography?

For me, in portraiture, above all there's a climate of trust that needs to be established with the model, the subject. This involves talking, observing, a warm drink and laughter too. When you're in front of the lens, you're sometimes in a weak, fragile position and I try to get the model to overcome this to catch the most natural image possible. It takes two to tango.

What are your plans for the future?

To leave, to travel a bit! Try out new things. And maybe get a Daguerreotype lens…

You can find more of Laurence’s photos on her Instagram and website.

Head to our Online Shop to learn more about the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens.

written by florinegarcin on 2023-01-01 #gear #people #fashion #digital #portrait #lens #daguerrotype-achromat