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The Rules - Nine rules for taking great close-up images

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The Rules

Digital SLR User Magazine
Digital SLR User is a magazine and web site 100% dedicated to helping you get the most out of your Digital SLR camera and further photographic gear. Assisting you on the path to taking better pictures. Digital SLR User cover everything you need and want to know about your camera with their fresh, exciting and informative attitude to DSLR photography.
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The Rules - The nine rules you need to know to take great close-up images

1 Keep your eyes peeled

Take a look around you right now and think about how any of the objects in the immediate vicinity could be turned into a great close-up image. Once you get your eyes tuned in to searching for close-ups, you'll discover subjects at every turn.

 

2 Research your subject

If you'd rather shoot a close-up of an animal, insect or bird, it's important that you have a good knowledge of your subject. Whilst you may come across some great subjects by accident, you'll improve your chances ten fold by knowing where and when to find them.

 

3 Take note of the light

Soft, overcast light is particularly suitable for flowers and plants but is ideal for almost any macro subject. Bright sunlight is great for bringing out the vibrant colours and for backlighting the subject.

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4 It's not all about expensive lenses

If you're really into close-up photography then consider splashing out on a specialist macro lens. Alternatively, you can use close-up filters, which screw onto the end of the lens and allow it to focus closer.

 

5 Use a tripod

In most situations it's best to use a tripod for macro work. It will reduce any issues with camera shake, help enormously when composing your pictures and aids focusing as the camera position is fixed.

 

6 Focus carefully

Autofocus is fine for some subjects but for greater control, switch to manual focus. For wildlife such as butterflies and dragonflies, focus on the subject's eye. To maximise subject sharpness, position your camera parallel to your subject.

 

7 Take control of the aperture

When working at very close distances the extent of your subject that is focus (depth of field) is very shallow. Depth-of-field can be increased by selecting a small aperture such as f/11 or f/16, which will bring more of the subject into focus.

 

8 Compose carefully

Good close-ups require attention to detail when it comes to composition. Symmetrical subjects such as a butterfly or a straight on view a flower may look best placed centrally in the frame whilst a flower spike might work better placed off to one side. It's good practice to shoot various compositions with the subject placed at different positions within the frame.

 

9 Work your subject

To get the most from your subject, work it hard and explore every possible shooting angle. This not only generates lots more useable images but also helps develop your own style.

  • The Rules for close-ups