Creative Freedom with Lensbaby OMNI
I recently had the opportunity to share a bit of Lensbaby magic with a group of local women photographers. As we created together experimenting, trying, exploring our vision one of the ladies asked, “Do you ever do ‘before and after’ comparisons with your Lensbaby OMNI?” That sparked a thought: I often capture with that idea in mind but don’t frequently or consistently share them in that manner. Here are a few examples of the power of light and color to shift the mood and story of an image… how placing, twisting, turning, tilting a film, crystal or reflector in front of the lens make an impactful difference.
For the comparisons below I will be sharing the “original” photo first (the left) followed by the OMNI image. Note: check the end of this blog post for some tips and tricks!
The images below were captured with the Sweet 22. The right image I added an orange Lensbaby OMNI film which adds a vintage and softer vibe.
The Lensbaby Twist 60 optic was used to create these images. I often like to use the OMNI tools to add color (the set on the left) particularly with white flowers and repetition (the set on the right)
In the afternoon/early evening of autumn a golden light enters my kitchen window. I captured these on my kitchen counter with the Lensbaby Twist 60 with macro filters. The reflector adds both light and vibrance - a new energy to the scene.
Golden reflector from the new OMNI “Silver and Gold” Collection
The Lensbaby Sweet 80 optic added such a cool flare (left image) and yet when I added the green film and blue quilted OMNI films the frame got a whole new story - It almost feels submerged!
I used the films from the NEW OMNI Color II Collection
The original image, rich and deep. The second image infused with vibrancy. (Sweet 80)
I knew I wanted to capture the awesome radiating flare of the Lensbaby Sweet 22.
In order to add to the brilliance and cheery mood (that’s what yellow always brings me!) I added a yellow film.
In the sunflower field with the Lensbaby Double Glass II. Catching the mid-day sun with the rainbow film created a fresh sense of glow and uniqueness.
One of the creative techniques I practice is taking one subject, one lens, and two or three OMNI and open myself to the creative possibilities. These were created with me sitting on my driveway with the flower in a vase, shooting into the setting sun. (with the Double Glass II) The “stretch glass” in the second set of images can be found in Lensbaby’s OMNI Creative Filter System
The OMNI system isn’t simply for flowers! I love how the new Bat Wand (currently available as a BONUS with any OMNI order) added layers of intrigue to these landscape scenes. (Lensbaby Sol 45 and Edge 35 optic)
The newest OMNI addition: the Bat Wand - available as a bonus with any OMNI purchase
Here are some tips and tricks to make the most of the OMNI system
Use a wide aperture. Make sure to set your aperture to the lowest f-stop number. That ensures that you have control to select an area of focus while maintaining the OMNI blurred and creating bokeh.
In editing, try the dehaze slider. In the Lightroom edit panel try moving the dehaze slider to the right. This will not only enhance the colors but add clarity to the OMNI effects creating a deeper sense of layering and magic.
Play. Yep, have FUN! Everything you create with the Lensbaby OMNI system will be completely unique. Noone will ever replicate the moments you capture. It’s important with OMNI to try and try and try again. Use different lighting situations, change up your subjects, twist the crystal, bend the films, cover the entire lens or only part. Make the moment yours. Open yourself to what can be when you break free of the “rules” and embrace the opportunity!
I have found tremendous creative freedom and expression with the Lensbaby OMNI system. It opens possibilities you’ve never conceived - the surprises that bring joy and fulfillment, mystery and wonder, intrigue and awe.
Please send your OMNI questions my way!
Grab 10% off Lensbaby using my code: wwillson AND/OR watch the Lensbaby Presents podcast and use the code PODCAST!
I so appreciate each of you who take the time to read, share, and support my art (and artistic ventures!). Blessings and light!
