Originally posted by Marc Sabatella I can see why the subject might prefer the "after", so good job there, but I personally prefer the "before". Probably a good thing I'm not trying to shoot portraits commercially...
The subject was so distraught with the first shot, that I saw her trying to crudely blur out the imperfections. Being the kind and sensitive Dad that I try to be, I "helped" her out. I can confirm that she was much happier with the "after".
As an enthusiast photog, I too prefer the former, make no mistake, I consider the DA70 a great lens for most applications, its just not a "great" specialist portrait lens.
The deficiency, here is not technical, the DA70 is just brilliant technically. Its in how people perceive themselves - and stark reality is something most people cannot stomach. The object of a portrait, therefore, is to allow the subject to view herself as she perceives herself to be.
It is for that reason that I sought out the SMC 85/2.2 soft.