2016 is the year that i hope i can start cataloging my finds using photography, as much as i love latin names somtimes its nice to have a picture as well, I also find them a LOT more user freindly then pulling out lines of names to show the general public.
So to help me (and any budding photographers out there) I have asked some good friends for their top Macro photo tips;
1) As much as I hate this one in winter, get up early! most inverts (and me) are often lethargic in the morings waiting for the sun to wake them up. By being up and about early you allow for a longer time to set you your gear/ shot before the amazing insect is a speck on the horizon!
2) Take more then one picture!
I know it sounds obvious but by capturing diffrent angles, and by filling the picture with diffrent backgrounds can compleatly change the whole image. it also gives you more choice when your back at home picking out the one to show off.
3) Use a Sturdy Tripod, or monopod and head to stabilize camera and lens. This will prevent the camara shaking, extreamly handy if you prefer exposure pictures!
4) Hight, getting to the same level of the subject that you are photographing. yes it will be uncomfortable and sometimes quite tricky but being at the same/ diffrent levels can change the results dramatically.
5) Start photographing from a distance, and then slowly move in closer for your next shot. The subject is less likely to respond to a slow moving object then one that strides right up to it. Dont worry if they fly off most will return shortly, after all there was probably a good reason it was were you found it.
6) Avoid direct or harsh sunlight. Plan your close up photography shoot on overcast days since a cloudy sky softens the light and beautifully balances color and image.
7)Watch the behavior and habitat. animals often return to the same spot over and over again. Keep your setup ready and be patient, it will pay off in the long run.
8) Keep an eye on the time! I know many a person who got lost in getting 'that one perfect shot' to then find that the tide has come back in, over run on parking, or just ran out of day light to look around the rest of the sight.
9) Turn off auto-focus when time and photo object permits and get into the habit of using manual focus instead. Use the magnifying camera feature to precisely pin your focus point. Works wonder when the subject remains still but when they are on the move consider final sharp focusing through carefully moving camera and lens back and forward. This may be daunting and you find it hard to begin with but it comes with time! (I am mainly saying this for myself as i find i am still useless at it).
10) Finding a suitable macro photography subject is probably the most challenging part. Know what you desire to photograph and study the environment they can be found in. Once you discover a desired targetstart watching its behavior. for example pick a local butterfly garden in a nearby wildlife sanctuary, or even your own garden and choose a certain area like a bush, leaves, or flowers. Watch carefully and see what nature provides. Train your eyes to discover the masters of camouflage and enjoy the hide and seek game most animals will play with you.
More importatly have fun! This is something that you are doing as you enjoy it! go out there and see what you find, dont forget to let us know what you found!
