This weekend was my very first experience shooting with a tilt\/shift lens. I rented the Canon TS-E 17mm f\/4.0L from Lens Rentals Canada for the week, and I couldn’t be more excited about test-driving this piece of glass.<\/p>\n

I managed to get out for a few brackets on Friday night, but the first real experimentation with the lens came on Saturday when I had the opportunity to photograph the interior of the new Jamieson Place building. Since I seem to be having issues with security in downtown Calgary, I decided to request permission to shoot from the Jamieson Place property management. They were prompt in responding and gave me free reign to shoot the interior…woohoo! I probably spent just over an hour in the building shooting from all different angles while testing out the tilt\/shift capabilities of the lens. I had a ton of fun, and I can’t wait to get out and continue my testing this week.<\/p>\n

On the 2nd floor of the Jamieson Place building they’ve built what they’re calling a ‘Winter Garden’, and it’s pretty amazing. Modern couches and stone benches are arranged amongst groves of bamboo and other smaller plants. The main feature is an infinity pool crowned with 3 amazing Chihuly glass sculptures that hang above. It’s a very peaceful atmosphere, and I can see myself returning there on a regular basis.<\/p>\n

Below is my first attempt at using the tilt functionality to isolate a subject. By no means perfect, but I still think it’s a fun picture.<\/p>\n