Tips for Macro Photography
Close-up photography is also known as macro photography. If your subject is small, you are able to photograph the small details by getting closer. Macro lenses are 1:1 ("life size"). This means that the image of your subject is the same size in real life. Listed below are macro photography tips to help you get started.
1. The first thing you have to think about is equipment. You can use a close-up lens, attach a close-up filter to the lens you are already using, use a bellows attachment, or a telephoto extender. If you are just starting out, you may just want to invest in the macro filter.
2. The depth of field for macro photography is different. Choosing a high f-stop number like an F16 or F22 (small aperture) is good. A good portion of your background will not be in focus.
3. Be careful when focusing your subject, because if you are not, the part you want to be in focus will end up blurry. Except under bright lighting conditions, you will probably use a slow shutter speed.
4. It is critical to properly light your subject. You lens will be very close to your subject, so it's important to have light in between your camera and the subject. Many photographers will use a ring flash.
5. You will be using slow shutter speeds, but film speed can play a factor in shutter speed. Generally you want to stay at ISO200 or lower.
6. Experiment with a number of different subjects. Play with shape and texture. Do not forget about composition, and color in your background.
You may want to use a tripod, use a diffuser, or experiment with light balance. It's important to take your time, but always have fun. Bugs and flowers are great subjects.
