This picture was taken using a technique called “lens whacking”, where the lens is held in front of the camera’s image sensor manually. The offset and misalignment of the passing light distorts the image and yeilds some interesting results. This photo of a quarter was taken using a 18/55mm kit lens with a DIY lens-cap adapter to control the offset a little easier.

This technique was taught to me by a co-worker I had when I worked at Western Washington University. He also brought the value of vintage lenses to my attention. Another post on that coming soon.