First I want to thank everyone that participated and/or voted in the last challenge.
Do some of the camera setting intimidate you? Do you want to learn how to develop your photography skills and learn how to use your camera effectively without always going back to the "auto" function. These challenges are for you.
This week's challenge is Macro/Close-Up Photography.
Most cameras are capable of doing either macro or close-up shots. While dslr's have many different options for doing macro photography many compact cameras have a macro mode.
First a basic definition of Macro, Micro and Close-Up Photography
DOF ( Depth of Field ) will play a large part in our challenge this week. We did do a challenge of dof way back for challenge 13 but here is an article on dof.
Compact Digital Camera Users
The first step is to find the "macro" mode on your camera. It also might help to pull out your manual if you have not used the "macro" mode on your camera to see how close you can focus. My compact camera will focus to 1/2" in "macro" mode but only at the wide angle of the zoom.
DSLR's
You have many more options for macro/close-up photography. From dedicated macro/micro lenses, close-up filters, extension tubes, reversing lenses and focus stacking.
Focus Stacking
http://digital-photography-school.com/an-introduction-to-focus-stacking/
The photo below was my first shot at focus stacking. I thought that 3 shots at f/16 would cover all of the depth I needed. Looking closely at the photo you can see areas of soft focus. Probably needed 5-7 shots, maybe.
I know I have included a lot of information here but what I really want you to do is go take lots of photos. Play with your aperture, alter your composition, grab a flashlight or a lamp for extra lighting (this will change your white balance). Don’t get caught up in all of the equipment listed in the articles. I took the photo below by leaning over a concrete wall with the camera resting on my left hand.
Experienced photographers who are knowledgeable in this particular setting are encouraged to offer “kind and constructive” suggestions on the posted entries. Those entering this challenge want to learn and improve.
This challenge starts tomorrow, Wednesday September 17th, and will go through to Friday September 26th. All photos must be taken during these dates to be considered. Enter as many as you would like- the idea is to practice & learn. TAG YOUR PHOTO CSC14-14 AND post your picture in this thread to receive feedback from other experienced photographers specific to this challenge.
I will then select the finalists and you will have 2 or 3 days to vote.
Expect to receive constructive suggestions on how to improve your skills.
How to post your photo on this link:
1) Go to your page that has the photo you wish to post.
2) Copy the “share” code in the bottom right section of that page.
3) Return to this thread and paste the code under comments
Have fun and I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!!!
*Note - If the links do not work, copy and paste them in your browser. I have had problems getting links to work in the past.
@amyleewinfield Lovely focus on the eye Amy-lee. Great whiskers also. @kathyboyles Beautiful focus on the rose. Love the colors and bokeh on your purple flowers.
@g4gg Very nice shot. Love the textures and colors. Beautiful dof.
@farmtography Wonderful fall tones in your first shot. Nice dof. Very nice focus and dof in the second and third shots. Always exciting to learn new things about your camera and photography.
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taken using a 105mm macro sigma lens on the canon t3i :D
@kathyboyles Beautiful focus on the rose. Love the colors and bokeh on your purple flowers.
@bigugly Very cool Paul. Nice dof. Sharp focus on the first gourd.
@genealogygenie Wonderful shot Kim. Nice dof, the corolla lobes and the yellow flower in focus and the background flowers blurred.
@eilert Two wonderful shots. The detail in the second shot is amazing.
@farmtography Wonderful fall tones in your first shot. Nice dof. Very nice focus and dof in the second and third shots. Always exciting to learn new things about your camera and photography.
@kathyboyles Another very nice rose Kathy. Beautiful colors.