Macro Photography
Macro photography is the practice of photographing stuff up really close and personal. It’s a lot of fun, and I think you’ll enjoy it if you haven’t tried it already.
Example of photo taken with 105mm "macro" lens
Naturally, one thing you’ll need is a good macro lens. One popular macro lens is the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 VR. VR stands for vibration reduction, and that comes in really handy when your subject is tiny and your dealing with an extremely shallow depth of field. The slightest jiggle can throw off your focus. Other great macro photography lenses (for Nikon D-SLR bodies):
- Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G
- Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR
- Zeiss Macro 100mm f/2 Makro-Planar T* ZF for Nikon
- Nikon AF Micro NIKKOR 200mm f/4.0 ED-IF
Here are a few quick tips that will make your macro lens more enjoyable:
- Use a tripod. Because you’re working with a shallow depth of field, even just a little movement will change your focus. If the macro lens you rent (or buy) has vibration reduction (VR) then you may be able to get away with hand-held shots. The above photo of the fly on a fig leaf was taken without a tripod. But truth be told it took me about 50 shots to get that one, where it’s in focus. I should have used a tripod!
- Take some portrait shots too – The Nikon 105mm f/.8 VR, the Nikon 85mm f/3.5, and the Nikon 200mm f/4.0 are also formidable portrait lenses. I think you’ll appreciate the nice portrait effects. So photograph your honey out in the backyard after you’re finished chasing bugs around!
- Use a flash – Sometimes using a flash will help. Experiment both with and without flash.
The Best Place For Doing Macro Photography
Where’s the best place to do macro photography? Really, your backyard is the ideal place. I took the photograph of the fly on the fig leaf in my backyard. Explore your world up really close. It’s kind of like looking at the stars: you can’t help but get philosophical about life, things, and your place in it all after doing a macro photo shoot.
The photo below was taken the same weekend I rented the 105mm. I was just sitting there at a swap meet drinking a Monster energy drink and talking with some friends. A giant beetle landed on the can. Perfect! Another macro photo opp! I think he was attracted to the green tab. Love interest?
Another macro photo example
Example of portrait taken with Nikon 105mm f/2.8 VR
Related Links:
