Lensbaby gets serious with its new 56mm f/1.6 portrait lens

Lensbaby has never been held in high regard within the professional photography community. But that might change at least a little bit with their just-announced Velvet 56 portrait lens.

Constructed of metal, not Lensbaby’s usual plastic, the 56mm lens features an f/1.6 aperture through a 9-blade design. Not only is it a ‘standard’ portrait lens, but it features 1:2 macro capabilities.

Despite the better build quality, it doesn’t appear as though Lensbaby has focused a great deal on the optics. As with the rest of its niche lineup, the lens is designed to be soft by nature, particularly when wide open. If it’s the look you’re going for, then the Velvet 56 might just be for you. But if you’re looking for tack-sharp images, you won’t find them here.

Below are a few example images and videos provided by Lensbaby:

The lens comes in both black and silver models, the latter of which comes at a $100 premium on top of the standard $499.95. To find out more and secure your lens, head on over to the Lensbaby store.

(via DIY Photography)