UltraViolet Photography and Lensbaby

Recently I have begun trying to work with UltraViolet light and my full spectrum K1. I’m enjoying it very much as the learning curve is proving to be a real challenge.

Most of my older lenses (and non of my newer digital) transmit the UV spectrum very well but I’ve been lucky enough to come across a few that are permitting me to do a some hand held shots. I’m finding simpler lenses with fewer elements and cemented groups seem to be working best so far. I’ve picked up a few 4/4 Zenitons and hope to show the results later in the spring during the wildflower season.

Here are a few using an older Lensbaby Soft Focus optic. It is 2 elements in 1 group.

The following are the exposure settings, filters and light source I used while photographing a White Geranium.

All were shot at f5.6 and on a 25mm tube.

1st image is shot with U360 & Kolarivision hotmirror filter stack, FS converted speed-light, iso 800, 1/90th.

2nd with U360/Kolari hotmirror and a dedicated 365nm flashlight, iso 800, 1/45.

3rd with BG3/Kolari hotmirror and dedicated 365nm flashlight, iso 1600, 1/90th.