Stunning macro photography originates from accurate observation, meticulous study of the subject and careful planning of the composition and lighting. Care should be taken in choosing the right subject, the right background, the right lighting and so on because all these elements do contribute significantly towards the quality of the final result.
macro photography
macro photography
 |
| Macro Photography Tips |
Choose The Perfect Subject - Always
Macro photography portrays the world we see in minute details. So it is very important to select the perfect specimen to photograph as any flaws it has will be magnified many fold when viewed in macro. For example if you go out to your garden to shoot flowers, pick the perfect specimen among them to photograph.
 |
| Macro Photography |
As far as subjects for macro photography are concerned, any object that captures the eye and captivates one’s imagination is perfect. Look for bold shapes, vibrant colours and unique textures.
Research Your Subject
A little bit of background research could go a long way in improving your chances of getting great macro shots. For example if you are planning to photograph some butterflies, do a quick study and understand their basic behaviour, like in what habitat are they found, what time is best to shoot (some are only active when sun is up) do they fly fast or slow, do they rest often, are the wings folded /extended when resting, etc etc.
 |
| Macro Photography |
There are many things to be understood about the subject and the more you study the better you are positioned to get great shots. It will actually enable you to predict the behaviour of your subject well in advance, so it doesn’t come as a surprise and when it happens you are prepared for it.
Planning before the Real Moment
In macro photography, how the subject is presented is often more important than the subject itself. To get great macro shots one should plan well in advance. Planning starts from input gained by researching the subject, first list out the equipment you might need, lenses, filters, tripod, remote release, focusing rail, flashes etc also make sure both your camera and flash units have their batteries fully charged. Also make sure you have ample storage space available (carry spare CF / SD cards). And once you get to the field take a minute to observe it, which will be the best angle to shoot, what background will look better, your approach line etc etc.
 |
| Macro Photography Techniques |
Before you actually start moving towards your subject make sure that all the camera settings are right, starting from file format, metering mode, focus mode, white balance setting, shooting mode (P, AV,TV etc), one shot or continuous shooting etc.
Photographing Constantly Moving Subjects
Insects are one of the most photographed subjects in macro photography. But sadly it is not an easy task to take amazing photos of insects with the perfect background, the right illumination, and more than everything else the right expression. Yes you heard me right.
Admit that they are one of the toughest subjects to photograph, but they are often beautiful and fascinating subjects. If you want to seize stunning image of insects, and other crawling or flying creatures, all you need is a little bit of understanding about them an immense amount of patience.
 |
| Macro Photography Tutorial |
Always study the behaviour of insects before photographing them. You need to know what are they attracted to, and you could often make them behave the way you like them to. You can attract some insects with substances like honey or sugar water. Do not just photograph the insects but try to capture other elements like, their interaction with each other, certain behaviours, expressions (especially curious look) etc.
The ultimate secret to shooting good macro photographs is accurate observation, thorough research, meticulous planning, disciplined approach, and patience.
In the next article we will discuss about Photography - Macro Photography - Macro Photography Subjects - Seeing Everyday Objects in Macro
The ultimate secret to shooting good macro photographs is accurate observation, thorough research, meticulous planning, disciplined approach, and patience.
In the next article we will discuss about Photography - Macro Photography - Macro Photography Subjects - Seeing Everyday Objects in Macro