50mm – 23/52

This week’s 52 on Friday theme is a little different.  Instead of the theme dictating the photo’s subject matter, this week’s theme is about using a specific piece of equipment – the 50mm lens.  The rest was up to the photographer.

If you’ve ever seen my camera bag, you’ll know it’s full of goodies.  Treats, leashes, squeaky toys, extra batteries, memory cards, lens cleaner (for curious nose prints), and of course my camera.  But you’ve probably also noticed that I have a whole bunch of lenses with me too.  Even more so than the camera body, the lens is going to have a big effect on what a photo looks like.  Each lens has different advantages and disadvantages depending on the effect I’m looking for, which is the reason I carry so many.  I want to be restricted only by my imagination, not by my equipment.

At first glance, my 50mm lens is one of the least “impressive” pieces of equipment I carry.

(50mm pictured on left)

Despite it’s small size, the 50mm packs a big punch and is very quickly becoming my favorite lens.  It’s a prime lens, which means it has no zoom.  I do end up having to move around a lot while using it, which works just fine for me since my subject is often moving too!  The biggest advantage of 50mm is the absolutely beautiful bokeh it produces.  I just love the soft, creamy background that really draws your attention to the subject. The more I use this lens, the more I love it.

50mm – 23/52

See what I mean about this lens blurring the background so beautifully?  It just really makes Iris stand out from the background.  By the way, this photo was taken at the same location I’m using for the Sunset Mini Sessions.  Shot at dusk, this is exactly the type of photo you’ll get if you schedule a mini session for your dog!

This next photo was completely unplanned, which is one of my favorite things about being a pet photographer.  Sometimes the pets do the planning for me!  Iris usually isn’t interested in the water, but last night we could hear a big bullfrog out in the pond.  She thought that was worth checking out.

Ready to see more of what you can do with the versatile little 50mm lens?  Check out Steph Skardal Photography next to see more 50mm photos.  Keep following the links to see everyone’s photos and be sure to stop back here when you’re done!