The Ultimate Macro Photography Tips For Beginners

Gone are the days when macro photography was impractical due to the required high-end equipment. In recent times, anyone can do this, thanks to technology.

Whether using a DSLR or a digital camera, or even a smartphone, it is now accessible and doable for anyone who owns any of these gadgets and equipment; and it is likely that you are planning to do some shots in this line, considering that you are here, looking for some pointers.

Before we proceed to the tips and guides, let’s take a closer look first at macro photography, and how it works.

What Is Macro Photography?

Macro photography is a unique and challenging type of photography. It mainly involves taking photos of small subjects to make them look larger or life-sized in the output.

Flowers, insects, and other biofactors are the usual subjects in macro photography. But, this is also used for bringing out and highlighting details in inanimate objects, like jewelry.

A Quik Guide To Macro Photography

Now that you already have an idea about macro photography, check these pointers, which experts and pros recommend toward beginners in the field:

• Pick The Right Camera & Lens Equipment

When intending to do macro photography, the first thing that you need to do is to obtain the right equipment. These include the camera and lens.

Most macro photographers utilize DSLRs because they offer tons of macro options and functions. In short, they are versatile.

But, macro photography is also doable in point-and-shoot cameras. The only difference is that these cameras have limited functions, and they usually work in automatic mode.

• Reverse The Lens You Already Have

Most cameras today already offer macro modes. However, they do not typically offer a 1:1 magnification ratio, which is the ideal figure for macro photography.

You may opt to look for cameras that already offer such a lens, But, if you already have a camera that has a macro mode, check if it is a 50mm fixed focal length lens.

If it is, then you already have the basic setup. The next thing you should do is reverse the lens by removing it from the camera and turning it around.

• Focus On The Most Important Part Of Your Subject

When you have already chosen a subject, you must focus on the most important part or aspect of it. This applies to all objects, whether biofactor or inanimate.

For instance, you are working on flowers for your macro photography. You may want to highlight the petals, as well as the details of this area.

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• Learn The Bug Behavior

The “Bug Behavior” is essential to macro photography. This especially applies when you are working with insects as your subjects.

What this means is that you must understand your chosen subject in almost all aspects. Do they easily get “scared” when you approach? Do they immediately fly away upon seeing the flash?

Knowing these things will help you improve your chances of obtaining your desired output.

• Customize Your Background

Another thing that you must consider in this type of photography is your background. While the subject themselves are interesting already enough on their own, the composition becomes a lot better when they have compelling backgrounds.

When choosing a background, ensure to have complete control over the entire composition. Moreover, be careful with the contrast between the subject and its surrounding.

• Pay Attention To Your Depth Of Field

The balance between sharpness and depth of field is one of the things that make macro photography challenging. There are several factors that need consideration to achieve the desired balance.

Even so, this will depend on various variables, including the subject, positioning, composition, and even the equipment. Whatever the case, though, it will take lots of practice to be able to get used to this aspect.

• Create Better Lighting

Macro photographers utilize various tools to have good lighting conditions. Remember, light is a key component in photography, and so much more when doing macro shots.

The most common advice from pros, though, is for beginners to use ring flash for better utilization of smaller apertures. Many also recommend faster shutter speeds, especially when shooting moving objects.

• Improve Your In-Camera Composition

Any photographer must know how to work on their compositions in-camera. Aside from this, they should also learn how to enhance and improve this aspect.

It is worth noting that this applies to all styles and types, and not only in macro photography. But, this becomes a bit more challenging when taking macro shots because cropping the output decreases the resolution.

This is why it is essential for photographers to learn how to frame the subject before taking the shot.

Get Started Today

As specified, macro photography is challenging. Even those who are already experienced in the field, they still face challenges and struggles when they take macro shots from time to time.

Despite this, especially if you are a beginner, you can master the art of macro photography by practicing. While it may take time for some, doing and applying these tips will surely get you started.