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Chapter 7 Close-up Photography and Photomacrography
Macro lenses should not be confused
with macro zoom lenses. The latter are really
close-focus lenses. They do not focus as close
as macro lenses and are not optically cor-
rected for fl atness. They are fi ne for taking
close-ups of fl owers, insects, and the like, but
should not be used for fl at subjects.
Focusing and Framing
With a single lens refl ex camera, close-up
focusing is no different than regular subject
focusing. Rangefi nder and twin lens refl ex
cameras present a slight problem. At close dis-
tances, the viewfi nder does not show exactly
what will be photographed. You know this as
parallax.
Parallax occurs because the viewfi nder
and taking lens are separated. It can be cor-
rected by slightly tipping the lens toward the
viewfi nder just before the picture is taken.
Many close-up photos are taken outdoors.
In such cases, it may be necessary to supple-
ment or modify available light. Using a white
cardboard refl ector or light tent can eliminate
shadows. See Figure 7-15.
A special electronic fl ash called a ring fl ash
fi ts on the end of a lens and puts even light all
around the subject. See Figure 7-16. A fl ash
allows the use of a higher shutter speed and
smaller aperture. This will provide for a greater
depth of fi eld. A distracting background will be
very dark. See Figure 7-17. It may be necessary
to experiment to get the best exposure.
There are three basic requirements for
taking good close-up and macro pictures.
• If your camera does not have through-
the-lens metering, it will be necessary to
compensate for the reduced light reaching
the sensor.
• Keep the camera steady. Use a tripod.
• Use a small aperture setting for maximum
depth of fi eld.
Figure 7-14. A modern macro lens can be switched
between auto focus and manual focus. This lens has
a maximum magnifi cation ratio of 1:1. This means
a 1 inch high object will appear life-size on 35 mm
fi lm which has a frame height of 24 mm or 1 inch.
(Tamron)
White reflector fills in shadows
Figure 7-15. Lighting can be a problem when doing
close-up photography. Shadows can often be
eliminated by using white cardboard refl ectors or
special light tents.