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Chapter 12 Outdoor Photography
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
occurs when focal length is increased to gain
working distance. If the same working distance
is retained, but a longer focal length lens is
substituted to increase image size, the depth of
field changes in inverse proportion. Doubling
the focal length reduces the depth of field by
one-half.
Lighting
Increased working distance makes it easier
to light the subject for proper exposure. In some
situations, natural light is sufficient, but more
commonly, electronic flash must be used to freeze
subject movement.
The use of flash illumination allows hand-
holding of the camera when small animals or
insects are photographed. The mobility of the
subjects and the photographer’s need to quickly
change positions for the best composition make
hand-holding a virtual necessity. While a tripod
is desirable in many close-up situations, it is far
too slow and cumbersome for capturing active
insects or small animals. The use of flash allows
the photographer to “freeze” the subject as well as
achieve a good exposure.
The built-in flash found on point-and-shoot
and many SLR cameras is not suitable for close-
up work. Shooting natural subjects in the field
is usually done with small self-contained flash
units placed on an adjustable bracket rather than
the camera’s hot shoe. Some photographers prefer
to use a single flash positioned several inches
above and just behind the front of the lens. Others
employ two flashes mounted on adjustable arms
positioned several inches to either side and just
above the level of the lens, Figure 12-64. One
flash serves as the main light and the other as the
fill light.
Stroboframe
Figure 12-64. Butterfly and insect photographers often
use an adjustable double flash bracket.
Portfolio Assignment
Photographer’s Choice
Choose one or more of the following
projects for your portfolio:
• Create a panorama. Look for a suitable
subject (horizontal or vertical). Shoot at
least four overlapping images and assemble
the finished panorama using image-editing
software.
• Freeze some water (photographically, that
is). Shoot moving water, such as a waterfall,
rainstorm, or even a lawn sprinkler. Use
different shutter speeds to observe the effect
on motion. Choose the image you like best,
noting the exposure information.
• Capture an animal. Use your smartphone
or tablet to photograph a pet or other animal
involved in a typical activity. If the “activity”
is a nap, try for an interesting or unusual
angle.