Last updated on August 12th, 2017
Note : This article is originally written by Suraj Singh. And it is published by the above mentioned Author.
Well, if you are a gizmo lover then you must be conscious about your camera present in your smartphone or any other camera equipped for professional photography. It is not completely related to the technology, but the element which matters for macro-photography is the type of lenses used.
Photography is a form of art and all photographers are artists in their own way. Photography is for everyone, whether, you are a professional or an amateur. All you need to have is a photography camera and the right equipment to capture stunning images. There is an endless range of images to capture, from landscapes to wildlife and people to places. You can now explore various types of photography and broaden your options to capture the best images.
Macro photography is one of the most intriguing types of photography today. This kind of photography allows you to capture, usually small size subjects, in extreme close-up and make them look life size or larger. To obtain such kind of images, macro photography requires specialized equipment. Here is essential equipment required to get the most out of Macro Photography.
Equipment for Macro photography
The most common equipment used for Macro Photography is macro lenses and extension tubes.
Macro lense – Macro lenses are used for close-up photography. The Macro lenses focal length determines the smallest size of the object it can capture. Macro lenses with different focal lengths have different uses. A 50-65 mm Macro lenses are used for product photography or small objects and scenes that need a natural background view. A 90-105 mm lens is useful for capturing images of flowers, insects and other small objects. Macro lenses with 105-200 mm are also used to photograph insects and other small animals. Most of these Macro lenses are used for a 1:1 or standard magnification.
Reversal rings – Usually less expensive than macro lenses, reversal rings are a great choice for Macro Photography. Reverse rings allows you to put the lens backwards on the camera, converting it into a macro lens. It has a camera mount on one side and a threaded screw mount that attaches to the front of the lens. Reversal rings can maintain excellent quality image as well.
Extension tubes – Extension tubes or bellows help extend the distance between the camera film (or digital sensor) and the camera lens. The focus distance, thus, becomes shorter, enabling higher degrees of magnification.
Close-up diopter lens – This piece of equipment is like a “filter” that can be placed on the front of the camera’s main lens. It can either be screwed-in or slipped-on to the front lens. The close-up Diopter too provides close-up focus, however, picture quality can vary.
Becoming an expert
Taking photographs can be done by almost anybody. However, there are a few things that can separate an oridinary photographer from a great one. Besides having the best digital cameras, it is important to have excellent photography skills as well. Capturing images like a pro may seem extremely difficult. However, you don’t have to worry as long as you know the basics of Macro Photography. Here are a few tips to help you capture close-up images like the pros.
Choosing the best macro lens – Macro lenses focal lengths range from 50mm to 200mm. Lower range lenses are ideal for product photography, while, higher range ones are suitable for small subjects like butterflies and other insects. Keep in mind, higher the focal length range, more expensive the lens. However, choose a lens that is suited for the type of objects you will be shooting.
Use extension tubes – Extension tubes fit the camera body and the rear mount of the lens. This helps to create larger image of a small subject. Extension tubes tend to be less expensive than macro lenses.
Use Apertures – It is important to consider the depth of field in macro photography. When focusing on close objects, the depth of field is usually small. A small aperture is needed to produce adequate sharpness across three-dimensional subjects. Select a small aperture like f/16 or f/22 to obtain the most out of an available depth of field.
Use a third hand – This is an extremely useful macro photography accessory to have handy at all times. It helps to support or position subjects wherever you want them to be. The third hand provides flexibility and offers more options when it comes to positioning backgrounds.
Point of focus – When working close up with small subjects it is important to consider the point of focus. By focusing on the most important part of the subject, you can change the appearance to get the best image close-up. A tri-pod or mono-pod is ideal for your camera to achieve such photographic results.
Backgrounds – You can change the look of the subject by adding different color backgrounds in macro photography. It is a little experiment to try out and see the difference in looks with the help of one subject.
These are just a few tips to set you on your way to realizing the endless possibilities you can work with in macro photography. With the help of a good photography camera and these tips, you are bound to enjoy the experience of macro photography.
