Ask anyone who is an expert in macro photography and they’ll likely provide you with some useful guidelines that will assist you in improving your photography as fast as you can. These guidelines can be incredibly beneficial, particularly for those who are new to the field, however, they can also restricting, frustrating and extremelyproblematic.
While it’s beneficial to study a few important macro photography rules however, you must know the best way to violate them successfully. So, you’ll be able benefit from the rules when they are appropriate for your photographs, and can alter them if you need to also.
This article will outline five essential rules to follow when macro photography. I will explain the basics of them and how you can utilize to improve your photography, and instances when it is appropriate to intentionally break the rules for the most optimal outcomes. Also, I give many examples of my work to show exactly how adhering to – and breaking different rules can alter your photographs.
Let’s get started!
1. Utilize Rule of Thirds
Let’s explore the most talked-about rule of photography. Yes, it’s the one that has “rule” in its title! The rule of thirds, a basic but powerful idea that’s designed to make your photos as fluid and even.
It is the rules of Thirds is straightforward: Divide your screen, viewfinder or LCD into horizontal and vertical thirds. This is a way to create an grid. The most important components of your composition – lines that lead lines, horizon lines, face, and eyes should be located between these lines. If they’re located at any or more of those “power places” in the grid – – the spot where the lines cross is more desirable.
How does this relate to macro photography?
Most often, you’ll be told to arrange flower stems according to the grid of rule of thirds in order to position flower centers on these power lines of an picture. Similar is true for leaves and insects.
It’s a solid suggestion that has been tested over time, producing delightfully satisfying compositions. Sometimes, it’s better to break free of the mold and create something more edgy and unique.
Let me talk about two instances where I would like to stray from rules of thirds.
The first reason to violate the rule is when you’re dealing with the subject is symmetrical. Symmetry is a powerful feature and is usually highlighted by placing the point of the symmetry (the area that images are an asymmetrical image) in the dead center of the picture.
I love placing my principal subject at the at the top or bottom of my photograph and leave plenty of empty space throughout the composition. This can create an overall minimalist feel one that I truly enjoy.
Now, don’t get me wrong. the rule of thirds has been a tried and true method that has elevated visual arts for decades. However, don’t be afraid go beyond the rules of thirds and create your own unique photographs!
2. Simple is best.
Another rule for macro photography? Be sure to keep your compositions simple.
In other words, you need to be focusing on one thing with no distracting elements as well as a simple and clean picture. In this regard, the most effective images usually have one subject with a consistent (often either black or white) background.
In reality, it’s an effective strategy. Chaos can distract from the subject matter and cause viewers to be confused.
In reality, controlledchaos might be the perfect element you need to create an image that is unique.
I like using controlled chaos when confronted with a complex image, for example, a field filled with many flowers that overlap. It’s important to ensure that there’s an object that is distinct and is recognized as the main focus point interest by the eye. (At the same time, it’s fine to allow the background or foreground to become a bit messy, as provided that it compliments the primary focus.)
Be sure to select your frame carefullyto keep the image from descending into chaos. Also, make sure that your image is sharp and tack-sharp. It’s a fine line to walk between being able to control a complex image and creating a huge mess.
3. Choose one focus point
Macro photographers are usually instructed to compose their photos with one focal point (i.e. the prominent space that the eye can concentrate on). This can help keep your composition from getting chaotic (see the earlier section) It can also serve as an anchor to the viewer while they enjoy the photograph.
While it’s true that there’s a moment and suitable time to apply this norm, there are situations where it is necessary to be violated.
For instance, when you are confronted with a pattern that is noticeable among flowers, leaves and ferns it might be more beneficial to think less about the focal point and think more about the picture as an as a whole. You should try to make the pattern more prominent so that the viewer can follow it throughout the image. It is also possible to consider going close or intentionally removing focus for a more abstract effect.
There’s a chance that you don’t get only one focus point If you frame your scene with care and carefully, you’ll end up with a great picture!
4. Use a uniform background
Backgrounds that are uniform are extremely common when it comes to macro photography. In reality, macro photographers usually shoot with a pure white or black background to ensure uniformity of the background.
The idea of having uniform backgrounds is logical The more uniform the background is, the less distracting it’ll be. I’m a frequent user of it myself.
However, this is alsoa habit that I frequently do not follow, and here’s why:
Unusual backgrounds could be…kind sort of dull. A more vibrant and uniform background is more appealing, but at times they’re not quite enough.
If you’re looking for your macro photography to the highest level, you might want to think about moving past the basic backgrounds. Instead, search to backgrounds that work complementing. That is, you should find backgrounds that provide a little of substance, while also enhancing the topic.
One method is to position another subject behind the one. Select an aperture that allows the second subject off-focus but identifiable. This is the way I made this image, which has the background of blurry tulips:
Another option is to shoot towards the sun to create flare effects that are creative and stunning highlights:
But be cautious Don’t be a mess from one uniform to the next. The key word here is “complementary.” Enjoy yourself playing with and play with your background macros However, be sure to keep it in check!
5. Be sure the whole topic is clear
“Keep the main object sharp” is a fundamental principle in macro photography. It’s the idea of ensuring you’re entiresubject is sharp, not only the back or front edge is sharp. this way, you’ll get stunning, clear, and lifelike detail.
In accordance with the standard that if you shoot the butterfly, make sure that it’s sharp from wingtips to wingtips. If you’re shooting flowers be sure it’s sharp from just the tip of the flower’s front up to an edge on the rear petal.
Sometimes, it’s not enough to make the whole object in focus, in which it is recommended to bring as much into the focus you are able to. (You can achieve this by reducing your aperture. It’s normal for photographers who shoot macro at f/8 and higher to achieve this!)
While an image with a focus can look beautiful however, you can also create beautiful emotional photos by making sure that very littleof the object is in focus. This is a method I employ often as you’ll observe in the photos in this article and is an excellent way to create abstract, distinctive images.
What can you do to create this effect? Just dial in a bigger aperture and then get closer to your subject. I usually shoot at f/4 but you can make great results with a range of apertures. You just need to experiment and explore the possibilities.
(One tip: focus manually and fix the point of focus in a clear area of the object, like the leaf or the edge of a flower. Although the majority of your shot could appear soft but you should include an anchor point for your viewers.)
Rules for macro photography: the final words
Macro photography tips can certainly be beneficial – especially when you’re just starting out I suggest you learn each rule that’s listed above. I would also suggest practicing by incorporating every rule into your photographs.
However, remember that macro photography isn’t just about adhering to some set of rules. It’s a form of art that allows you to show your individuality and let your imagination run wild. Don’t be afraid to play around with your rules when the time requires it.
Accept the power to the power of thirds however, don’t be tied by it. Certain times, the symmetrical subject require to be at the center of attention, but sometimes, a bit of off-balance magic can produce minimalistic masterpieces.
Let’s not overlook the simplicity of life. Keep it simple and clear, but don’t be unwilling to break the chains of routine. Your viewers will be surprised by surprising elements and let them unleash their imagination.
Grab your camera, make some macro images as you think about the different rules you can follow while taking pictures. The rules are intended to be broken If you’re willing to think out of the box, you could create stunning photos!
Here’s the next thing to do:
What rules of yours do find appealing (or do you not like)? Have you got any laws that you would like to violate? Let us know in the comments section below!