Macro Photography

Macro photography or close-up photography is used when the photographer wants to bring out certain details of the subject. The subject of macro photos are specific parts of an object you want to bring focus to. The subject is in focus while the background is thrown out of focus, using the small depth of field concept. Macro photography is a photograph where the subject is magnified to life size or greater. In macro photography, objects look different than what once thought when they are magnified. 

Depth of field determines how much of your image is in focus and is created by changing the aperture size. To create a macro photo your aperture setting needs to be large, which will allow the subject to be in focus and the background to be blurred. This setting is effective for close-ups and detail shots. 

Lighting is the key to successful macro photography. Proper lighting will help bring out the details you want to capture in your subject. Natural light is the best option when taking this type of photo. Avoid using the built in flash with this type of photo, because it will wash out the detail of your macro shot. 

Having good focus is the most difficult aspect of macro photography. Using manual focus will yield the best results. To begin learning how to take macro photos, first photograph a stationary object then experiment with taking macro photos of moving objects. In order to capture the detail you want it may take a few attempts.

If you are not comfortable with the manual settings, there should be a macro control on your camera. This is typically represented by a small flower on your camera’s settings dial. This setting allows your camera lens come closer to the subject. 

Any movement in the camera while taking a macro shot will be noticed in the photo. Using a tripod will eliminate any movement and help create a sharp and clear photograph.

Macro photography allows the photographer to focus on a specific detail of the subject and can be a helpful photojournalism tool. There are several rules a photographer must follow when creating detailed shots. This function allows the viewer a new look at the object that is being photographed.