Photography Tips and Tricks

Photographing small objects can be an art form. The photographer takes a tiny object most people never notice and make it seem larger than life. Flowers, bugs, pebbles and blades of grass have all been the subjects of professional photographer’s images.

Without using special techniques, though, an image can end up fuzzy or confusing. These tips will help you get the best pictures without losing focus.

Lens

If you are using an SLR camera you will need a special attachment for your camera.  A macro lens lets you get very close to an object without losing focus.  Many 28-300 mm lenses have a macro lens built in, so if you have one make sure to see if it has a macro included. This can be found on its product information guide.

Settings

On a digital camera you will have a macro setting built in. To get to it, set your camera to manual, and then press the button with the flower next to it. A flower should pop up on your LCD screen when in macro mode. This mode does the same thing as a macro lens on a SLR camera.

Lighting

Always make sure that your subject is well lit so that detail will show up in the image easily. Watch out for shadows. Since you are so close to the object it is possible that your body will be the biggest shadow. Position your body so that it is not in the way of the light source.

Composition

Keep in mind that macro shots should be very simple. Try to focus on only one object to keep the image from looking too busy. Usually, the object should be centered within your view finder for the best results.

With some practice, and these tips, you will be able to take macro shots like a pro in no time!

If you are new to using an SLR camera, there are some things you need to avoid to make your experience much more enjoyable.

Do-it-Yourself

Sometimes do-it-yourself can be your downfall. Before taking matters into your own hands make sure you know what you are getting into.

Sure, you can clean the outside of your SLR with a clean cotton cloth and window cleaner, but don’t spray the cleaner directly onto the camera. Squirt a little cleaner on the cloth and then polish your camera and lens.

Never clean the inside of your camera yourself. Take it to a professional. Sure it costs money, but it costs a lot less than paying for repairs after a botched do-it-yourself cleaning job.

Buying Mystery Filters

Always make sure that you know what size filter your camera can use before you buy it. No matter how good of a deal you found on Ebay, it’s no steal if the filter won’t fit your camera! A 55 mm diameter lens, for example, will only match a 55 mm diameter filter. (You can buy adapters to make an off sized filter match your lens, but adapters are hard to find.) To find the size of the filter look at its ring.

Water Hazards

Getting an SLR wet is a big no-no. Water not only damages the camera, but also ruins the film. You can avoid wetness from rain or splashes by putting it in a gallon sized zipper freezer bag. This also works for taking pictures in the rain. Just push the shutter button through the plastic. Make sure to keep the plastic over the lens flat and wiped off to avoid distortions.

Melt Down

Heat can have a bad effect on film. It creates a halo effect in finished pictures at the very best, and no image at all in the worst cases. Avoid leaving your SLR in hot cars, near heaters or in direct sunlight. If you have to take photos outside in the sun, put your camera in its bag and lay it in the shade when not in use.

By just avoiding these hazards you will steer clear of the most common SLR problems.