Photographing Lenses

[Michael Erlewine]

I am about to (given time) photograph all my more exotic lenses. I wonder how you would approach this? Shall I focus-stack each lens so we can see as much as possible or are those photos already available and perhaps a more “dreamy” look (shallow depth of field) might be more interesting. And would you rather see the lens off the camera or on the camera, bellows, view camera, etc., where you might commonly use it.

I also probably should put them in a light tent to keep shine and glare to a minimum.

Any suggestions appreciated.

This photo is an example of what I mean by “dreamy,” as in less detailed.

[Airy]

As an alternative to that level of perfection, I can only propose a healthy dose of imperfection.

I'd suggest using my ancestor's view camera and Rapid Rectilinear lens. Having a century-plus-old lens depict a modern one funny thought. Usually, it is the other way round.

But I'm still waiting for the carborundum powder that I ordered for grinding the glass panes provided by Thomas (thanks again) that would replace the missing matte screen.

[Jack Dahlgren]

It comes down to what YOU are interested in doing. I think off the camera is good because it can give prominence to any distinguishing features. Things like aperture and focusing scales, mounts, elements. I would think that you want the portrait of the lens to carry something about the feeling of the lens. Sad you can't take the photo of the lens with itself...

[Dr Klaus Schmitt]

Excellently done!

[Ethan]

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[BruceSD]

Take a photo of each lens on a scale with a ruler next to it.  Size and weight are critical characteristics to those of us older photographers, and to those who travel/hike/climb.

To make your photos really unique,  it be interesting to see a lens photo with a lens diagram superimposed over the photo (say at 50% opacity).