Getting to grips with Macro

[PeterD]

The problem with Macro photography is the very narrow dof. Any movement of the camera can cause the subject to go out of focus. The solution is of course to use a tripod or monopod but, in the field, this is not a very good solution as setting up etc takes time and is likely to disturb the subject

I now use a monopod permanently fitted to the Macro camera on a shoot. Arrange the length to minimum so that what you have is effectively a short handled stick. If you want to quickly take Macro shots, crouch down, position the end of the monopod on the thigh or other convenient part of the body. This will provide a stable platform for the camera significantly reducing movement.

Here are a couple of shots taken yesterday using this method.

Bee

And zoomed in


Beetle


Any comments gratefully received.
Peter

[Guest]

Re: Getting to grips with Macro

My favourite is the beetle, the subject isolation you have got there appeals to me and its a very sharp image, that's what I like about closeups the most, to bring something out into the spotlight that is usually hidden from everyday observation and to make it star of the show. The bee pics have more going on around them and unlke many of your pictures the light and colours aren't as striking, no sunlight I guess, would flash have brought the colours out more?

[PeterD]

Re: Getting to grips with Macro

My favourite is the beetle, the subject isolation you have got there appeals to me and its a very sharp image, that's what I like about closeups the most, to bring something out into the spotlight that is usually hidden from everyday observation and to make it star of the show. The bee pics have more going on around them and unlke many of your pictures the light and colours aren't as striking, no sunlight I guess, would flash have brought the colours out more?

Thanks Michael. Your suggestion about flash sounds bood but at the range to the subject I think I would have to dim the light output. I shall give it a go tomorrow.
Peter

[yorky]

Re: Getting to grips with Macro

A couple of shots with the olympus 35mm i think this is a very useful macro lens which does do 1-1 magnification as well as being very light.






This one was taken with the Sigma 105 lens

[img]http://e-group.uk.net/gallery/data/506

/Early_Marsh_Orchid_1a.jpg[/img]