July 2019 - 33
With nature being unpredictable, how
does a macro or wildlife photographer
cope with going for a trip, but not
getting satisfactory images?
For me, that’s the most appealing
thing about nature – unpredictability.
There would be no fun if you knew you
were going to get what you want and
exactly how you want it. With macro
photography specifically, we need to
know a lot more about these smaller
animals, their breeding cycles, the best
habitats for them and of course, the
best place to find them. There are a few
Give us your top ten tips for
macro photography in ten simple
sentences
- Always shoot eye level. This
will usually involve the camera
(and you) being flat on the
ground. - The depth of field is very
shallow in macro lenses. So
shoot at small apertures. - Portraits are nice, but also
always try to get the animals in
their natural habitat. - Always carry a flash/LED light
handy. - Macro photography is a lot
about textures. So even if not
an insect, try to amplify the
textures in nature. - Always use side lighting. The
shadows will give depth to the
image. - Since many creatures could
be wet, watch out for flash
reflections. - Always keep an eye out. You
never know what amazing
behaviour might be happening
right under your feet. - Never disturb the insects you
are photographing. Wait for
them to come to you.