The new Lensbaby 50mm f/2.5 Soft Focus II optic produces the type of dreamy, romantic photos that are perfect for weddings and creative portraits. The revamped lens is a welcome update to the original, which Lensbaby launched 12 years ago (and has since discontinued). In addition to drop-in aperture disks, like those used in the original Soft Focus optic, the Soft Focus II is designed with an internal 12-blade adjustable aperture. This addition makes the Soft Focus II more convenient to use, since you can adjust the aperture (and effect) simply by turning the front of the optic and varying the f/2.5-f/22 aperture. At wider apertures, images take on an overall “glow,” which some describe as an impressionistic look. A stopped-down aperture creates a sharp, well-detailed center with soft edges.

To generate soft-focus looks with the original version of the optic, you had to choose a drop-in aperture disk, which would dictate the “look” the Lensbaby delivered. Now, you have multiple built-in options thanks to the internal 12-blade aperture, which also saves you the hassle of inserting/removing individual aperture disks.

Users can still choose to utilize one or more of the trio of drop-in aperture disks provided with the kit. The disks can be stacked for even more effects. Lensbaby also includes an additional Starburst disk that can be used to change the area of focus and does a great job when there are visible points of light in the background—whether it’s the sun or artificial light sources.

This 50mm lens (45mm diagonal angle of view when used with a full-frame camera), which focuses as close as 15 inches, is part of Lensbaby’s Optic Swap system. That means you’ll need an Optic Swap compatible lens body like the Composer Pro II ($195), which offers the widest range of compatibility for DSLR and Mirrorless cameras. The Soft Focus II optic alone sells for $180; the combo with the optic and a compatible Optical Swap body for Nikon F, Canon EF or Sony E-mount is $280.

For more information, visit: www.lensbaby.com

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