The Canon Magazine 55
shoot explosive action
Project 3
view The video video Also online^
http://bit.ly/pp_155_3
01 lens choice
You can get results with the 55mm end of
a kit lens, but a macro lens is better if you
have one – it will allows you to focus closer
so the matchstick head fills the frame.
Switch off any image stabilization on your
camera or lens when using it on a tripod.02 tripoD
You’ll need a tripod so you can lock off
your composition. This is essential as you’ll
need consistent framing while taking your
burst of pictures. You’ll also need both
your hands to be free to light the match
and use the remote shutter release.03 Match
A pack of safety matches costs around
50p, so it’s an affordable way to get some
amazing hi-speed pictures. You’ll light the
tip of the match with another match and
take a series of pictures in rapid
succession to catch the moment it ignites.06 blu-tack & water
Get a big blob of tacky putty like Blu-tack
or white-tack, and then place an unused
matchstick upright in it so that it doesn’t
move about. You’ll also want to fill a glass
with water and keep it to hand so that you
can place your matches in it when you’re
ready to extinguish them.05 shutter release cable
A shutter release cable allows you to fire
the camera remotely, so you can hold it
down to take a succession of shots and will
ensure you don’t shake the camera as you
do this. If you don’t already have one, you
can find them for relatively cheaply online,
just get the one that fits your Canon.04 black backgrounD
The only light source you need for this
technique is from the match when you
bring it into contact with another heat
source, or lit match. Use a black piece of
A4 card as your backdrop to achieve have
a blank black background in the shot, for a
clean image free from distractions.Top Tips Match head Macro
Use a few household items to capture an explosive moment
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