Getting Started

Ready?

Congratulations - your Lensbaby has arrived and you can’t wait to start shooting!

Whether photography is a new hobby or whether you’re a seasoned pro, your Lensbaby lens is a bit different than any other lens you've ever used.

Check out our tips below to help make your first Lensbaby experience a great one.

Get Set...

Lensbaby lenses are non-electronic, manual focus lenses. So, you may need to make a few quick changes to your camera settings before shooting.

This video will walk you through how to: https://lensbaby.wistia.com/medias/07cc1b0412

  • Adjust your diopter to your eyesight
  • Get properly exposed images in Aperture Priority
    or Manual Mode

Need more help with your particular product? Check out the How To video on your specific product's page.

... Go!

Now it's time to have some fun - here are some suggestions to help get the most out of your Lensbaby shooting.

  • Start with an easy subject - something with texture so you can clearly see the area of focus.
  • If you are shooting with Sweet 35 or Sweeet 50- point your lens straight ahead (don't worry, it will be time to tilt things around and shake them up soon). Practice getting your sweet spot sharp. In this position, it will always be in the center.
  • If you are shooting with Edge 50 or Edge 80- tilt your lens to the side (pointed straight ahead these optics work like prime lenses with no effect). You will see a line of focus appear in your image. Adjust your tilt and focus until that slice of focus is where you want it in the frame.
  • If you are shooting with Velvet 56- determine which aperture creates the effect you prefer and start shooting. If you are shooting at f/1.6 or f/2 it helps to start out at f/4 or darker to determine your focus then open the aperture up for effect.
  • Look sharp through the viewfinder? Take a few extra shots, each with a slightly different focus, just to make sure.
  • Once you've mastered some straight-ahead shots, try tilting the lens just a little bit. The sweet spot or slice of focus will move in whichever direction you tilt (you'll most likely need to adjust your focus again once you've tilted). Notice how even a little tilt goes a long way!

Kick it up a Notch!

You're feeling good, in the Lensbaby groove - let's see what else you've got!

  • Try taking a photo of a friend or favorite pet from 18" - 24" away.
    Note: f/5.6 or f/8 apertures work best to get your subject's whole face in focus.
  • Take a walk and shoot some scenery in your neighborhood. Notice how looking through a Lensbaby gives you a whole new perspective on your world.