ABSTRACT
Self-Assignments If you’re looking to push your creativity and find
new ways to use your Lensbaby equipment, try
a self-assignment. Choose an optic or acces-
sory you don’t use much. Then go out for an
afternoon and use it for all the photos you take,
regardless of the subject. Do you have the Soft
Focus Optic but don’t use it much? Have you
tried stacking the macro filters together? Ever
used a small-aperture disc or no disc at all? Use
self-assignments to move yourself away from
what you’re comfortable with. They offer a way
to focus on using a particular piece of equip-
ment or on a specific subject. They’re an oppor-
tunity to photograph in a way that’s outside
what you normally do. It can do wonders for
your creativity. By making yourself focus on one
optic or accessory, you give yourself the chance
to get to know it better. You can learn what
subjects/situations it works well for and what
it doesn’t. You may find it’s your new favorite
accessory or that you truly can’t stand it! Know-
ing your equipment enables you to choose the
right option for the subject or the effect you
want to create.