Macro shot of a lotus flower

Sometimes you want to get close. Really close. If that’s the case, macro photography may be right for you. Having the ability to shoot lifesize (1:1) or larger insects, flowers, spiders, food, electronics and more appeals to a lot of people. There are a few things you’ll need however if you want to give it a try, so let’s take a look.

First of all, you need to be able to focus much closer than is normally possible. There are a couple of different ways you can do this. The easiest way (and most expensive) is by way of a dedicated macro lens that lets you move in as close as a couple of inches away. These dedicated lenses start at about $300 for the third-party offerings. To test the waters of macro however, that may be a little steep. For some of you renting may be an option, otherwise you could consider either a close up filter or extension tubes. Close up filters are small, cheap and light and screw into the filter thread of any lens, instantly turning it into a macro-capable lens. Extension tubes are simple tubes that attach to your camera between the body and the lens which creates more space in the area from sensor to lens and allows you to focus closer to your subject. Prices for these begin under $100, and have the added bonus of being usable with a dedicated macro lens as well. This means you can buy some, decide you like macro, buy a macro lens and then use both together to go bigger than life size (2:1 and up).

Once you’ve got that necessary equipment, it’s time to take some macro shots. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Use a tripod. Sharpness is essential to macro photography and handholding the camera just doesn’t cut it. Additionally, use some kind of remote shutter release.
• Use manual focus. When you’re really close to your subject it doesn’t matter how good the camera’s autofocus is, it’s going to struggle to lock onto the subject.
• Macro lenses have a very shallow depth of field so if you want crisp, sharp images you need to stop the lens down. This is f22 and higher territory.
• Shoot indoors. The tiniest bit of breeze can be enough to negatively influence the shot, so where possible, shoot indoors. Take a trip to the florist, buy some flowers, give them to your wife/girlfriend/mother/sister and photograph them at home. Use a small spray bottle of water and mimic the look of fresh dew and rain drops.
• Shoot straight on. Try to avoid angling the camera up or down. Keep it straight and you will maximize the sharpness.
• Use a ring flash for lighting. These allow light to come from all points around the outside of the lens for a nice, even look.

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