Lensbaby Composer & Fisheye Optics - Lensbaby Fisheye Optic

Fisheye Optic:

In addition to the standard optic element, I also received the 12mm fisheye optic element. The fisheye optic is very different from the standard optic in that it deals more with field of view than with selective focus. Like its sibling optics the fisheye produces some very interesting visual effects which makes it great for creativity but impractical as a day to day wide angle lens. The fisheye optic also comes with a set of aperture disks, a plastic carrying container and a small instruction booklet. 

Fisheye Bundle

Optics Side-by-side

Specifications:

• 12 mm focal length 
• 160 degree field of view 
• Minimum focus: 1" from front of optic 
• Maximum focus: infinity 
• Six element multi-coated optical design 
• f/4 optic with aperture disks that range from f/5.6 to f/22 
• Shipped with clear plastic storage case 
• 1.89" (4.8 cm) x 1.89" (4.8 cm) x 2" (5.08 cm) 
• Compatible with the Composer. Special adapter required for Muse (sold separately - available November 15th).
• Not Compatible with the Control Freak

What is a Lensbaby?

Most babies are cute, but I'm not sure that such a statement could be applied to the Lensbaby. It's a rather odd looking affair that takes certain visual cues from a universal joint. Don't be alarmed though, its appearance is integral to its operation. As stated before, adjusting the focal point on a flat plain is the Lensbaby's primary effect.  To accomplish this one simply rotates the front part of the lens in a certain direction. As the front of the lens moves, so does the focal point.  When the desired effect is achieved, the locking ring is rotated to lock the lens in place and the photograph can be taken.  This locking ring is what separates the composer from the muse and the control freak.  The muse is more like the classic Lensbaby which cannot be locked in place.  The control freak takes the composer one step further by utilizing set screws to adjust the desired angle of effect. 

Lensbaby Composer

Lensbaby Composer

Now that we understand a little bit of what the Lensbaby is about, we'll hop on over to the next page and talk about using this nifty little contraption.