Capture the calming landscapes of Italy with @hansfoto | Featuring FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
Lee Hwan-soo is a photographer who travels the world to capture the most beautiful destinations. What started as pretty photo taking for his Instagram page @hansfoto, turned into a full repertoire of photos and videos focused on travel.
He takes us on a calming and awe-inspired journey against a backdrop of the scenic landscapes of Italy, while giving us an insight into how he creates Instagram reels with the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens.
Lens in focus | FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
As a next-generation G Master standard zoom, the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II features evolved optics and AF performance, all in a compact and lightweight package. Its constant aperture of 2.8 creates stunning bokeh throughout the entire zoom range.
Focal length: 24-70mm
Min. focus distance: Wide 0.21m / Tele 0.3m
Max. magnification ratio (X): 0.32
Weight: 695g
This lens is such a great upgrade from its predecessor. Its lightweight design makes it easier for me as I travel a lot.”
This lens is such a great upgrade from its predecessor. Its lightweight design makes it easier for me as I travel a lot.”
Hwan-soo’s take on the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
When it comes to shooting while travelling, a lightweight design isn’t the only thing Hwan-soo looks out for in a lens. As he shoots handheld, image stabilisation is also crucial to him. “Shooting handheld with the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II was no burden thanks to effective image stabilisation, which made my production process smoother and without any difficulties.”
When paired with a Sony E-Mount lens like the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II, Hwan-soo’s Alpha 7 IV image stabilisation performance is optimised, and creates smooth, stable video. The overall combination becomes a more lightweight package as opposed to operating with an additional gimbal.
3 Reel Questions
What is your reel creation process like?
Most of my reels are short videos that are an extension of my photos. I first capture the main photos, and then shoot a short reel of the same composition, along with music to make it more enjoyable to watch. If there are many videos, I sometimes create a reel that introduces a city or a country by grouping the videos together.
Was there anything in particular you tried to convey in your reels, and how did you achieve it?
I wanted to convey exactly what I felt while experiencing the landscapes of Italy. Each place I visited was filled with awe and a sense of healing. I tried to convey the emotions I experienced authentically in the way I framed these reels. One of the most memorable scenes for me is the backdrop of trees in the Tuscan countryside of Italy. There was also an unexpected field of yellow flowers, so I positioned them in the foreground and took the shot.
What were the important points when creating this reel?
I wanted to have minimal editing, so I made efforts to find the best shot. For this reel, I picked a scene that could be used as a thumbnail among many photos. And to create more emphasis on the beauty of the landscape, I considered capturing moments with no people in the background.
Words of encouragement
To inspire aspiring creators to get started, Hwan-soo shares some words of advice. “There are so many types of reels, so it’s important to shoot in your own style. Just start shooting and share it on your account. Who knows? You may receive unexpected attention.”
