WHAT IS MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY?
Macro photography is the name used for taking close up photos of very small subjects like insects and flowers so that when enlarged, we can see detail that is missed by our eye, or, capturing specific details of larger subjects such as the human eye.
Technically, macro photography is when you are achieving a 1:1 (life size) magnification. So, if we were to photograph the tip of a pencil, this would be projected the exact same size onto your digital sensor. True macro lenses offer this 1:1 as a standard feature. There are some zoom lenses that claim to offer macro capabilities, but in reality, they are better described as a close focus feature. This isn’t a bad thing as if you’re dipping your toe into this genre of photography as it’s a great way to see if you want to go and spend the $$ to get a dedicated macro lens.
Macro photography probably more than other form of photography takes a lot of practice just to get a half decent shot. Personally, I’ve learnt and gained a lot of patience over the years of taking macro photos but I can truly say that at times it’s been so frustrating! This is mainly due to the magnifications / distance you’re working with and because any camera movement is “magnified” by the lens system. You therefore need to get comfortable and understand the various factors affecting the type of shot you are taking and practice a lot.
This form of photography opens up a whole new photographic playground and encourages creativity – abstract shapes, textures, colour and of course light.
To view some images of every day items used creatively with the macro lens – check out The Macro Queen
ARTICLE FOR RICOH CAMERAS
This article was written by myself for Ricoh cameras:
Macro Photography by Michelle Legg
I know it’s been said many times in many articles, but Macro photography opens up a whole new world – both visually and creatively.
For those who are new to macro photography and wondering what it’s all about, macro photography is the name used for taking close up photos of very small subjects such as insects, strawberry seeds or the stamens on flowers or, capturing the details of larger subjects such as the human eye so that when enlarged we can see the detail that normally would be hidden from us.
The opportunity to be creative with this genre of photography is as endless as any subject matter one can lay their hands on. It doesn’t have to be just about flowers or insects; subjects can range from kitchen utensils to a hair comb. It’s all about interesting compositions. Really, no matter where you find yourself, there is always something that can be used as the subject of a macro photograph.
As with all things in life, practice makes perfect. I’ve personally spent many years perfecting my macro photography techniques. I prefer to take my macro pictures without a tripod, making sure I have good light source – either the sun or my flash unit.
Having a project also helps to improve one’s skills. I’ve set myself a challenge to take a macro photo each day for a year. This challenge has certainly opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of subject matter and it’s also dramatically improved my creativity. I also have a goal to take a macro a day for 1000 days, but knowing my love of this genre of photography I can see it going for a lot longer than that.
An important step in becoming creative is familiarising yourself with the relationship between iso, aperture and shutter speed. Don’t just rely on the cameras automatic settings. The quality of your macro photos will only be as good as your technical capabilities, so mastering these skills should be top priority.
Above all, have fun with your macro photography. Enjoy exploring a “new” world and see where the endless possibilities take you.
BE PREPARED!
Sometimes, to get photos of beautiful creatures such as butterflies and dragonflies, you have to be willing (and able) to get down on their level.
Just recently, I was walking along a busy road and noticed these beautiful yellow butterflies drinking the nectar from the weeds.
Be observant, patient and above all, be prepared to do what ever it takes to get that shot!
LIGHTING
It’s easy sometimes to set one’s flash onto ETTL (auto mode) and take photos hoping that the camera/flash system is getting it right.
When I’m out and about taking photos, I prefer to use the M mode in the flash and choose the strength of light to make my macro images come to life.
Taking control of one’s light source via the flash will make a world of difference to your photos.
Don’t be afraid to use the flash creatively. It may seem a little daunting at first but practise will make perfect.
Why not start at home with an ordinary object and practise what the different strengths that each head can give you.
If you’re stumped on how something works, get out your manual or google it.
SHADOWS
Have you ever given any thought to what shadows can do for an image?
Sometimes as photographers we work really really hard to eliminate all shadows, and in some cases – it’s not a bad idea!
However, in our creative efforts, one can sometimes over look the value of what a shadow can do.
Not only can they create an amazing image on their own but they add depth and can make for some interesting shapes.
For some inspiration, type in the words “shadows in Photography” into google and the most amazing images will appear.