Macro photography can uncover an entire world of details usually invisible to the human eye. One can get macro shots from even the tiniest patterns on the wings of a butterfly or the texture of a petal. This kind of photography allows one to discover and share miniature miracles existing in our surrounding world.
Macro photography is an art that takes close pictures showing details that are not usually visible in our everyday vision. Technically, macro photography is the process of photographing an element at a magnification ratio of 1:1 or more. The subject is said to be in life size or larger than life size if projected on the camera’s sensor.
What Equipment Do You Need For Macro Photography?
You want to take compelling images in macro, so you need to equip yourself with the right tools to do that, here is what you will need:
Camera
Even though almost all cameras have the ability to take macro shots, a DSLR or mirrorless is preferable for macro photography because it can change lenses and offer options for manual control. This would provide great flexibility and precision in capturing detailed images.
Macro Lens
A macro lens is designed to take pictures of very close objects, mostly achieving 1:1 magnification or better. The focal lengths available for these types of lenses are vast and usually range between 50-200mm. However, the range of 90-105mm focal length is an excellent macro lens since it serves as a good balance in working distance against the magnification achieved.
Extension Tubes
If you’re not ready to break open your wallet for a dedicated macro lens, then extension tubes are the budget alternative. They fit between your camera body and lens and let you focus closer than you normally would with just that lens, increasing magnification.
Tripod
One needs a robust tripod in macro photography to assist in firmly holding the camera. This, in particular, comes in handy with slow shutter speeds and even more with low light or smaller apertures aimed at greater depth of field.
Lighting
Natural light is usually the best for macro photography such as stunning sunset photography with continuos lighting, although there are some auxiliary lighting options, such as ring lights or flash units, that would be very beneficial in killing shadows and bringing out details. Diffused lighting softens rough shadows and promotes even exposure.
How To Capture Top-Notch Macro photos?
After properly equipping yourself with the right gear, the next step will be to develop some of the techniques that will help you capture breathtaking macro images.
Focus and Depth of Field
In macro photography, focus and depth of field are very critical. The depth of field is most often very shallow due to the very close focusing distances, and thus only a very small portion of your subject will be in sharp focus. For a greater depth of field, use a smaller aperture, but then you may also have slower shutter speeds or higher ISO settings.
Composition
This is the base of any good image, just like any other photography, when it comes to the genre of macro. Care about what’s in the background—a clutter or distraction may be reflected in the image. You could blur the background using a shallow depth of field to make the subject come up.
Another good rule to work with when doing macro photography is the rule of thirds, where the subject is not exactly at the center but a third from the top or bottom and a third from left or right. This will create a more dynamic image. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find out the most interesting way of presenting the subject.
Lighting Techniques
Of all the factors, lighting has been recognized to play a very significant role when it comes to macro photography. Usually, soft and diffused light is preferred because it avoids harsh shadows and brings out fine details in the image. This could be achieved in natural light while shooting in the golden hours or through diffusers that soften the light.
Unless in natural light, it is worth considering ring light or macro flash. These instruments light up your subject quite evenly, really killing the shadows and allowing even the tiniest detail in your image to become sharp and in focus.
Background Control
An uncluttered clean background helps to keep the viewer’s attention on the subject. You can, out on location, create a simple backdrop using a colored paper or fabric placed behind the subject. You can also adjust your shooting angle so that the subject is positioned against a more pleasing background, like a clear sky or a blurred, colorful scene.
Patience and Practice
Macro photography requires a lot of patience. With such small subjects and a very shallow DOF, even the slightest movements can affect the shot. Take time to compose your shot, work out your settings, and await the perfect moment.
