Fun Things You Can Use for Optical Effects While Shooting
Tip: Make sure that you remove your lens hood before trying these.
1. Your phone. The glass can be used to make some pretty sick reflections.
2. Prisms. There are an abundance of these on amazon that create different effects. I first time I heard about "lens chimping" was from Sam Hurd in like 2012.
3. Ziploc bag, saran wrap, or cellophane - for a soft, filmy look.
4. Greenery, leaves, or florals. Such a fun way to add texture or a pop of color to an image.
5. Cheesecloth, panty hose (plain or colored), lace, ribbon, knitted doilies, or really any sheer material. Honestly, these can provide so many different looks.
6. Copper tubing. Hello, ring of fire!
7. A mirror. Another way to get some really cool reflections and refract light.
8. Vaseline (over a lens filter or saran wrap), for a soft focus look.
9. Body oil from your forehead (first time I heard about this was from India Earl). I don't worry about using saran wrap with this, but I do make sure to clean my lens really well after I've done it.
10. Windows, for a play on light & textures.
11. String lights or fairy lights. 'Nough said.
12. Car lights. If you've ever wanted to shoot a little after it's dark, this is a my favorite way to do it!
What are some fun creative things you've tried from behind the camera?!
XO, Dakota