Zooming In
This month I want to focus on Macro photography. Spring offers up the opportunity to capture some unique nature photography. If you consult the Internet to look up the definition of Macro photography, you’ll be offered all types of convoluted explanations of the term. Simply put, Macro Photography can be best described as capturing really small subjects and making them seem larger than life.
It’s possible to find dedicated camera gear that specializes in Macro photography. If you have one of these dedicated macro cameras or lenses that’s great. Unless you’re a professional photographer or a camera addict, you don’t necessarily need one.
You don’t even need a digital camera; however it will help you learn the style a lot quicker than waiting for your film to be developed! A tripod, especially one which will allow you to position the camera near to the ground will help you greatly but again, is not necessary. Many digital cameras even have a setting that can assist you with this style; typically indicated by a flower symbol. This will set the camera to slower shutter speeds and usually turn on the flash as you need as much available light as possible when taking macro photographs.
You only need to look as close as the nearest flower bed or tree to locate a subject to photograph. Flowers are great subjects not only because they are vibrant but also because they contain so much detail, especially close up.
After finding your subject get into a comfortable position. You’re going to need to get close to the item you’re shooting so if you’re lying on the ground, you may want to put down a blanket. You’ll need to extend your zoom/telephoto to it’s maximum and get as close as your camera will allow you to while maintaining image focus. Start by taking a few pictures as you try focusing on a specific area of your subject. If you’re capturing a flower, try to capture the stamen right in the center. The effect should be that the stamen occupies the majority of the frame. You’ll notice your picture stands out more as the area around your subject will be blurred. Don’t give up as it may take you easily twenty or thirty shots to capture one picture that really stands out.
So get out there with your camera and give it a try. Happy shooting! CC
