SJP – Tips & Lessons

Hello all,

I have been asked by many people, “How do you photograph close-up like you do?” So I figured why not give you all information on our blog on how to learn Macro Photography (photog term for photographing close-up). I will suggest several books and areas on the Internet to read for the more technical aspects of this style of photography, but for now let’s get started on my introduction  :)

Today I would like to give you an overview of what we will be discussing in our various Posts.   All of the posts will be numbered so you will have an idea of where you would like to jump to.  I have read many books, blogs, magazines, etc…regarding macro photography and I would like this to be a bit different than what I have read before. I want to talk to you all…so if you want to jot me an email or if you want to comment on the posts, please feel free to do so. I will do my best to answer all of your questions.  My professors would always say, “No question is a dumb question.”   I agree with this statement!  How will you learn if you don’t ask

The photograph above is the subject I used to start my macro fun. This shot was done in my studio with 2 lights. (I will discuss lighting another time.) Personally, I like to shoot my subjects full frame (all or most of the subject) before I start my macro shots.  I think it helps me get to know the subject and find out what I really like about it… I’ll start my macro mode (my lingo of being focused on the project) to produce a photograph like the one below:

I would like you to see the various elements of the photograph. It is sharp (at least in the area that I want your eyes to be drawn), has back light, water drops to add some freshness to the flower and is of course…up-close to the subject.

In order to photograph a great macro you must be patient and have a good camera, excellent lens’, and ALWAYS use a steady tripod (this holds the camera). The point & shoot cameras nowadays photograph ok but to get a great shot you need to put some cash into your tools…sorry.  I will give you some ideas of the various cameras next post and add some excellent lens’ and tripods too  One more important thing…you must have fun!  That is what I love…enjoying every moment of viewing my subjects up close.

Ok…  So  I will post once a week (that’s my plan) on the various steps on our Macro Photography How-Toos

Thanks for taking the time to read our blog and happy day to you all.  See you next week!

Janice

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