A Ballerina Wakes Up - Portraits with the Petzval 85 Art Lens by Franz Navarrete

Ballet is poetry in motion; a succession of fluid, delicate movements, a form of art.

In this series of portraits by Franz Navarrete, a ballerina in a painting wakes up and comes to life. It is poetry in motion, captured in painterly fashion. The artist behind this juxtaposition of different art forms is Singapore-based Filipino photographer Franz Navarrete, who talks about his style as an artist, this selection of compelling photographs, and his experience shooting with the Petzval Lens in this exclusive interview.

Please introduce yourself to the Lomography community and the readers of the Online Magazine.

Hello everyone! My name is Franz, a Singapore-based Filipino photographer. I’m currently heading the photography unit of a local PR agency.

I was born in Bacolod City. Grew up in a farm. I’m an island boy through and through. I love being in the ocean. I think my love for the sea reflects in my work in terms of tones and evoking a sense of calmness. I’m also greatly inspired by summer– the light, energy and vibrant colors.

How did you get started with photography?

I’ve been a very visual person my entire life. I was a movie geek and exposed to a lot of magazines such as Time, Rolling Stone and National Geographic. When I was a kid, I spent most of my free time watching films. I appreciate beautiful cinematography like in “The English Patient,” “The Talented Mr Ripley” and “Dances with Wolves.”

Reading magazines at an early age introduced me to the works of great portraitists such as Steve McCurry and Annie Leibovitz. Wanted to be like them.

How would you describe your style as a photographer?

Simple, organic and evocative. I’m into colors.

What subjects do you particularly like to take photos of?

I love capturing people in their natural environment.

What would you count as your greatest achievements?

That’s a tough one. I think my greatest achievements are not the most obvious ones. I’m more than happy if I am able to capture a strong rapport with the people I photograph.

Do you have a dream project?

I still haven’t taken good portraits of my mum and dad.

Digital or analogue? Does it matter which?

I think it doesn’t matter – it all boils down to personal preference.

How would you compare your experience of shooting with the Petzval Lens with using other Lomography products? How about with other lenses?

Two words: incomparable bokeh. I love the dreamy, painterly look the Petzval gives with the swirly bokeh and slight blur.

Please tell us about your shoot. Is there a concept/theme behind it?

I was aiming to take portraits of my model, Alyona, in a soft painterly style. I also wanted to capture grace and movements in a poetic way.

Can you tell us a little more about your Petzval experience? Any interesting things you encountered or challenges?

Nailing the focus with the Petzval can be tricky. But it was a blessing in disguise as I didn’t want my photographs for this shoot to be tack sharp. Also, I’m used to shooting very fast. The manual focus of the Petzval doesn’t allow that. Using the manual focus made me slow down and allowed me to communicate more with my model.

What is your favorite feature or what do you like most about the Petzval Lens?

No. 1, I love its old school and elegant look. Petzval grabs attention and starts conversations, which is important for me to make my subjects feel comfortable. I love that it gives me painterly results.

For what kind of projects would you recommend the Petzval?

It is really amazing for portraits especially when you are aiming for something dreamy and romantic.

Any tips for first time shooters?

Like with any other cameras and lenses: practice and experiment! Use your Petzval lens outdoors first and have a textured background.

All photos by Franz Navarrete. Images taken using a Nikon D750 and Petzval 85 Art Lens.

Learn more about Franz and his work on his blog and Instagram.

written by Jill Tan Radovan on 2016-07-19 #gear #people #ballet #portraits #ballerina #petzval-85 #franz-navarrete