HOW TO SHOOT MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY

Step 2 - Equipment
Macro does not just me a close-up. Anything done with any lens that is not a macro lens is really only a close-up. Macro photography , with macro equipment allows you to photograph at 1:1 or 2:1 or bigger ratios. You can fill the frame and even enlarge to close to 100% without losing too much image quality. There are Macro filters that you can add to your lenses, but in my expirience, the image quality is very poor. You can also use Extention tubes with a regualr lens, to get a bit closer, but again, you will not be shooting at a true 1:1 ratio, and IQ will not be as good either.

A flash is also important in macro photography. often you are shooting at settings ot f/11 or better and need to get some light on the subject to allow for the greatest detail. You also have to be careful, as too much light, when shooting upclose will wash out the colours and blow out the highlights. Deffussed light is the best! Also, you always have to be aware of shadows, as they can kill a shot, if a shadow falls across your subject.

Tripod is almost a must. Because dedicated macro lenses are prime lenses (means you can't zoom with them), it is all about focus. Handholding is not impossible, but when you are shooting 3mm bugs, you want to nail the focus. A tripod, while sometimes not allowing you to go everywhere, does ensure that you will have a steady hold, and be able to nail the focus, which is the MOST important part of macro.

If shooting with a tripod, shutter release cable is a good investment. This allows you to shoot the camera without ever having to touch it, again, decreasing the chance for shake or movement. You can also get wireless releases!

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Author's Biography
Sean Parmley is an avid photographer.You can see samples of his work at his PicPrizes Gallery, where he is known as Parmcat.Share del.icio.us Digg it reddit
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