Part 8 Lesson 1: Introduction to macro
In this lesson you will learn the 10 critical steps you should take for every macro photograph, and then in the following 3 lessons you will learn how to change the settings for different creative effects.
Macro photography is where the final image is reproduced at life size or larger. The cheapest and easiest way to do macro is to use the macro mode on your camera, if you have it (it is usually a flower icon). This enables you to focus closer to your subject than when on normal mode (you also lose the ability to focus on the horizon when this mode is engaged, so don't forget to put it back).
Another free way to do macro, but not so easy, is to use the reverse lens method. This involves taking your lens off, turning it round, holding it in place, and shooting with the lens backwards. It's a rough-and-ready macro technique, but it works (watch out for getting dust on your sensor though). I've got a walk-through here: click for the reverse lens method.
The least expensive method that involves new kit is to buy extension tubes. These simply move your lens away from the camera, enabling a closer focus. Unless you buy the super-expensive ones (which you don't need), you do lose the electrical contacts, so you will need to work in Manual mode.
The most expensive but easiest way to shoot macro is to buy a dedicated macro lens. Try them out in a shop if possible before you buy, to check the level of magnification and the closest focussing distance is what you were expecting. People are often disappointed with the macro capabilities of a 50mm, so think about starting around 100mm if you can afford it.
The techniques described below will work if you are using macro mode, extension tubes or a dedicated macro lens. If you are using the reverse lens method everything will work apart from your ability to stabilise the camera. Use a high ISO instead.
This lesson corresponds to Chapter 18 in Book 2.
10 steps
1: Tripod
You will be using long shutter speeds for this exercise, so you you will either need a tripod or a tripod alternative (pile of books, chair, bag of rice).
Fuji X-T1, 14mm, f22, 1/100 sec, ISO 320, handheld
2: Light
Don't use flash for this exercise. Set up next to the brightest window you have, but out of direct sunlight.
3: Aperture priority mode
Shoot on Manual mode if you are confident, otherwise choose aperture priority mode and your widest aperture (eg f4). This will give a very, very shallow depth of field. If you are using macro mode you may not be able to change the aperture - work with whatever the camera picks.
4: Low ISO
Leave the ISO as low as possible to keep the quality of your photos high.
5: Stable subject
This is the most critical part for this week. Choose a subject that does not move one iota. Nothing living, and nothing in even a breath of wind. You are relying on having an incredibly long shutter speed to let in enough light. You should even stand perfectly still while the shutter is open so you don't cause vibrations through the floor or accidentally create a small current of air.
6: Mirror lock up
If your camera has a mirror, use the mirror lock up function. This prevents the internal vibrations that can add to camera shake.
How to find out if you camera has a mirror: the quickest way is to google it.
If your camera is mirrorless, it won't have a mirror. Want to know more about mirrors and mirrorless cameras? Read this post: Mirrorless cameras vs DSLRs.
Use your manual to find out how your camera's mirror locks up, and how to switch it off afterwards.
7: Minimum focussing distance
See how close you can get with whatever macro equipment you are using, and still be able to focus.
8: Manual focus
Switch to manual focus and focus carefully. There's no margin for error.
9: How does it look?
Use Live View if you have it. Take a step back and look carefully around the frame for bits of debris, tiny insects, and distracting highlights.
10: Self timer
Use a cable release or the self timer for the last step in the series to eliminate camera shake. Your hand should not be touching the camera as it takes the photo. (Unless you are doing the reverse lens technique, in which case use a high ISO instead of a long shutter speed.)
THIS WEEK'S PROJECT
Take a macro photograph following the 10 steps in this email.
This cotton reel was shot using the reverse lens technique.
