How to focus a self portrait at f/1.2

Focusing a self portrait is hard, but focusing a self portrait at with Canon’s 85mm f/1.2 lens fully open is almost impossible. F/1.2 is so shallow that even the slightest movement will make your eyes blurred and your nose (or ears) tack sharp.

While definitely difficult, it is not impossible, and British photographer Joseph Parry nailed a workflow to make it work. (if you don’t believe it’s possible, just look at how sharp the eyes are at the portrait above.

At 1.2 even your breathing movements can get you out of focus. So it is crucial that you stay still once you’ve focused. Now, this is always an issue with self portraits, but the Depth of Field on f/1.2 makes it a super human task.

The “secret sauce” lies in using a Canon 6D and its associated Cannon Connect app (iOS, Android).

Joseph suggest a weird yet effective flow of holding the tablet (or phone) in a certain awkward way when focusing:

1. connect the camera and the tablet
2. hold the tablet almost between you and the camera (a bit to the side so you can focus on your eyes)
3. Focus by zooming WAAAAAY into the eyes, and move your hand to the shutter button
4. lower the tablet and shoot.

If this does not sound intuitive, following the video will show how easy it can be. You would still need some practice, but at least it will move the portrait into the realm of possible: