Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/01/01
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Dan Post wrote: > > Francesco- > I was taught a long time ago that 'Wide angle lenses are not very flattering > because of the apparent fore-shortening of the face, anf they make the arms > look big, especially on women, which is a no-no" > I have always used a 90 or 135 for shooting portraits, but the few shots of > folks that you've posted don't seem to have this distortion- is it because > of the Leica lenses, or are you using some technique to eliminate it? > Dan > dwpost@msn.com With the big exception of (like there always is) Jeanloup Sieff who is eminent in this genre. As a matter of fact he was mentioned last week on the forum because he is eminent with the Leica (M). I think they've given him stuff, or put his signature on some cameras like Helmut Newton or HCB. I imagine when many think of nude Leicas they think of Jeanloup Sieff. When people try to imitate him they come up with the most awkward and unattractive results. I can speak fro direct experience. Using ultrawides let alone wides in this genre demands extreme mastery over ones equipment; technique; taste. His masterful look also screams Rodinal in Tri X but I don't know this for a fact and hope someone might because I think it is known. Jeanloup Sieff is a master of Nude photography with the Leica rangefinder camera and one of my favorite photographers.