Edits: The Concept: w/ Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 G micro (Macro)

I spent about 15 years as a graphic designer, specializing in editing photography, before I starting concentrating on my own photography.  What I didn't respect, as much as I should have as an editor, is a really great photograph.  I always thought, with hubris, that I could make gold out of whatever photo turd (or masterpiece) came across my desk.  Well, the shoe is on the other foot now, and I fully understand the brilliance (and importance) of good photography.  A habit I get into now is making different edits of a photograph that I like.  Basically everything you do with a good photograph, turns out well.  The CONCEPT is this: once you have an exceptional photograph, exploit it with many different edits for different "feels" and different purposes.

Portrait: Haunting Close Up: Nikon D4 + Nikkor 60mm F/2.8 Micro: Edit Color.

Portrait: Haunting Close Up: Nikon D4 + Nikkor 60mm F/2.8 Micro: Edit Black & White.

Portrait: Haunting Close Up: Nikon D4 + Nikkor 60mm F/2.8 Micro: Edit Blue, Electric Eyes.

This photograph reminds me of the haunting look that Kurt Cobain had in many images that were made of him while he was alive and famous.  I was really struck with the emotion in this and that it reminded me of a musician's or artist's portrait.  This is of my son Marcus, who is an art student in college.  I have a theory that real people are more important than celebrities.  Our daily passions, and failures are far more meaningful than someone on t.v. or the internet.  I like the color version, like the b/w better and the blue one, with the effect in the eyes, is perfect for me.  It really captures the person, at this moment in time.  The moment is not all smiles and sunshine... there are some real life issues in it.  I deleted the next line because it's too personal.  This photograph hits me harder than any photograph ever has, in my entire life.  Next paragraph.

I was curious in this quick photo session, in how a macro lens would work for a portrait lens.  I am completely blown away.  It is perfect at shallow depth of field, and the focus details are amazing.  I like that I can get as close as I want.  I see less distortion in this, compared to a 50mm or 85mm lens at close range.  This lens just hits me like a ton of bricks with how real it captures what's in front of me.  

What you'll see soon is a review of the Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 Micro lens.  I started photography with this lens in classic Macro, and have some images that I will post soon, but I am intrigued by this lens as a portrait lens.  I'll be shooting portraits starting now with this macro lens!  Results to come soon. 

Update: here are some images from a fun and casual photo-walk with the Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 G Micro.