and useful. For studio work, a lens with a good macro capability is
essential, so either buy one or make sure your zoom lens has a
proper macro function. Some so-called macro settings on zooms
are not true 1 : 1 macro or even close. So beware and check the
specifi cations carefully.
I have found that the best focal length for microstock macro work
is slightly telephoto, around 70–100 mm (35-mm equivalent) because
it allows you a bit more distance from your subject to work with, and
because these focal lengths are great for portraits.
Simple Studio Setup
A good, simple setup for a microstock photographer looking to take
shots of objects and the occasional high-key portrait might be as
follows:
- Two studio fl ashes, each with either an umbrella (brolly) or softbox diffuser; diffused
light is important - Stands for the lights
- A plain white background—a white matt painted wall would do
- A suitable surface—a white tablecloth or other plain white surface is good for high-
key work
Hopefully, you now have that table or other surface cleared of stuff
and ready to use for photography. You will also need some studio
lights, at least two, with soft boxes or umbrella diffusers, preferably
the former.
This fi rst setup, backlit high key on a table, is illustrated in Figure
7.4. This setup is pretty versatile. The rear light is a large softbox on
FIGURE 7.4 A basic backlit studio setup.
© Douglas FreerSIMPLE STUDIO SETUP 123