Passion for Optics: Michael Larzhay, Photography Enthusiast
Larzhay Embraces Optics for Stunning Photography
Larzhay, a self-taught artist and luxury portrait photographer based in New York City, has found a new tool to elevate his craft: Optics. After discovering the plugin in 2022, Larzhay has been using Optics as a Photoshop extension for two years, appreciating its efficiency and versatility.
Optics offers a treasure trove of effects, including Film Stocks, Mist, and Lens Flare, which Larzhay relies on to quickly add cinematic lighting and other visual elements to his photographs. The EZ Mask feature, Larzhay's most frequently used effect, stands out for its versatility and is frequently employed in the field of optics.
The plugin's intuitive interface and unlimited creative options make it a favourite among photographers. Larzhay can tweak and save his preferred settings to achieve unique results, all while maintaining a streamlined workflow. He works within the Lightroom > Photoshop > Optics sequence, allowing him to spend more time being creative rather than fiddling with settings.
One of the game-changing features in Optics is the "time" function, which allows photographers to create a sense of movement and depth in their images. Embracing experimentation with all Optics options can lead to truly one-of-a-kind results.
Larzhay's work often reflects his cinematic influences, particularly directors like David Lynch, Stanley Kubrick, and Ridley Scott. His recent project captures the desolation of the COVID-19 lockdown in NYC/NJ, which he plans to turn into a book.
For those interested in trying Optics, the Boris FX Hub offers a free trial. The plugin is also user-friendly, with easy-to-follow tutorials available online to help newcomers get started. A feature request for Optics is the ability to quickly flip effects horizontally or vertically, which would further enhance its versatility.
In an industry where practice, skill, and dedication are key, Optics provides a valuable resource for photographers like Larzhay, helping them to add that cinematic touch to their work and stand out from the crowd.
Technology, such as the Optics plugin, plays a significant role in Larzhay's work by offering a variety of effects that aid in creating cinematic lighting and visual elements in his photographs. The plugin's user-friendly interface and versatile features provide Larzhay with efficient and creative options, enabling him to focus more on his artistry rather than technical details.
