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Use macro lenses for close-ups

Techniques

24 October 2007 14:23

If you want to take good pictures of small subjects, such as flowers and insects, then you’re going to need some close up equipment. Although you can adapt other lenses by use of filters and tubes, for ultimate flexibility and ease-of-use, invest in a macro lens. This will help you to focus right close to your subject for images of your small subject at life-size. In other words, it gives you 1:1 magnification.

Typically, prime macro lenses start at 50mm and go up to around 180mm. A good focal length is around 100mm, and if buying for a DSLR, remember to factor in the extension effect of your sensor.

Using a macro lens often comes as a revelation to a new owner. Looking at small details at life-size reveals a whole world of new potential, previously hidden. But because of the small scale of the subject your technique must be spot-on. Focusing is certainly one of the most difficult aspects due to the limited depth-of-field you get even at narrow apertures (f/11 onwards).

Switch off the autofocus and focus manually or your lens will spend most of the time hunting for a point of focus. Where possible use a tripod and for moving insects, catch them at rest or in the morning before they’re too active. 

Macro photography is tough at the best of times but on very windy days it’s virtually impossible to achieve sharp results unless you’re photographing static subjects, so pick your days and subjects carefully. Vary your aperture on each subject too, as securing maximum depth-of-field can make all the difference.