NFi Photography: Macro photography

Saturday 28 January 2012

Macro photography

Macro photography is one of the aspects of photography that I enjoy the most. It allows one to see things in a unique way that we ordinarily would miss. Like the many eyes on a jumping spider or the intricate patterns of a butterfly's wings. My equipment is certainly not top of the range and my set up is modest to say the least. In spite of this, I have managed to take some images that I feel are pretty good and I would like to share some of my experiences.

First off, I have used many different cameras from bridge point and shoot,to garden variety compacts to DSLR. On all of them, I have used the Raynox DCR-250 magnifying lens. While not a true macro lens or even lens for that matter, it works pretty well if you're just messing around. I always try and use natural light and have found the on board flashes pretty much useless at this close range. On the subject of close range, the real trick is getting really close to your subject. So this setup woks only on subjects that are not easily spooked or skittish. Most insects seem to be very slow early in the mornings and this is the ideal time to shoot them.

Depending on lighting and prevailing wind conditions, I mostly use Aperture priority for my macro work. Usually f8 to around f11 works well because any higher and the already narrow DOF becomes too much to handle. Speaking of DOF(depth of field), with any macro work you must realize that even the slightest movements will have a magnified effect of the image. (pun intended!) So, slow, minute movement is required to achieve the focus you desire. It works best if you set the camera to manual focus and move back and forth to set the correct focus. Tripods have not been successful in my attempts due to the extreme and often uncomfortable positions one needs to be in to get it just right. Above all else, patience is key. Just keep at it and eventually you will get that perfect macro shot! Here are some of my examples and if you have any questions feel free to ask \: