Excellent Macro Camera

[Andrew]

With macro is on digital cameras in general, the internal displacement of lenses (groups) meant that quality and image size close-ups make sufficient to be able to. Strong enough taken the short range of about 1 meter to approximately 1:1 scale. Only the subsequent area magnified images to about 10:1 is called macro range. At 1:1 scale chip is an object on the CCD size shown in. In practice, it is to compare the macro capability of different cameras due to the different chip sizes really meaningful, "frame-filling object width (or height) to speak of the. So how small can be an object to make it the viewfinder or the display completely fills. Some cameras, objects with only 1 cm wide without additional accessories depict fill the frame, other cameras do this as close-up lenses, or so-called macro converter.

One of the advantages of digital cameras is that many of them can make excellent macro photos. In some cases, some rooms reach a surprisingly short distance from the subject, in other cases you use the zoom to enlarge the subject and fill the screen. In general, the shutter speed is quite low, so we do not recommend enough the use of a stable support for the room or the self, to prevent the vibrations that are easy to reach even minimal ruin a shot. The highly magnified image of an object can be very funny but also very useful because you can discover details that are needed to ignore them if we see with the naked eye. Familiar objects reveal shapes, textures and colors that are reminiscent of the art or modern architecture. A problem arises when photographing a two-dimensional object, like a stamp or banknote.

The closer the lens and the aberrations are more apparent linear. The straight lines are distorted by taking the characteristic shape of the image "barrel" which must then be corrected with a photo-editing program. In brief, I would just remind that the term Macro (in the jargon of the purists) should be used only from the time you work at a magnification ratio greater than or equal to 1 / 1. This means that if the actual size of the photographed subject is for example 1 mm, the latter must have at least this size (or more) on the sensor. Another example: if the size is about 2 mm on the sensor while in reality the subject measure 1mm, we refer to report 2 / 1). In recent years, the picture or close proximity photo has greatly democratized (especially with the advent of digital cameras) and it has flourished the terms" macro "on not allowing goals to exceed the ratio 0, 5 / 1 (or less) but what of the bottle as long as the intoxication of power take pictures of insects, flowers either to go and meet users.

When selecting the camera can look forward to macro-fans - for crop cameras, in front of cameras with full frame sensors, two key advantages: they offer more zoom magnification and the image detail for the respective Crop factor (x1, 5 for Nikon, x1, 6, Canon Olympus and x2) and offer in comparison to full-chip more depth of field. The increase in itself is a fairly obvious advantage, but also for the depth of field one will be with diopter Super Macro with very thankful, because there's only focus in the millimeter range. So one of the few areas in underwater photography, which is worth saving. Whether 400D, 450D, 40D or 50D, Canon or D80, D90, D200 or D300 with Nikon - all these cameras offer the advantage of crop that is so important for macro fans. An additional plus for the crop team all these cameras have an internal flash and external flashes may thus also be via optical cable.

In contrast to the wide-angle photography - where the use of red filters happens quite common - you need for macro flashes. Without them, the motives are often not sufficiently illuminated - especially as many high f-numbers can be selected. With the number of flashes are the ghosts. Many swear by to produce by shadows and lighting atmosphere, while others insist on two flashes for a clean illumination. Both are of course well - but if in doubt give two smaller flashes more flexibility than a large - especially since you can always switch off.

One can for the most part the auto focus to rely on, but a completely different technique also choose in which one fixed camera to focus does not, but the reverse, with manually set preset distance object cautiously approaches the until the object in the viewfinder sharpest appears. It helps with some very good cameras, an electronic viewfinder and / or a sliding plate.

Macro Lenses

T he modern macro lenses allow a continuous focus from infinity to 1 / 1 ratio, giving comfort remarkable job. The optics of this type of lens is designed to achieve excellent uniformity of image magnification of all reports while minimizing the leakage of light thanks to a system of internal focusing which prevents the elongation the draw.
Obviously, the price of a macro lens is higher than a fixed focus optical performance but is generally a high level and can replace without any problem, a lens focal length equivalent. Macro lenses come in different focal lengths (usually 50mm to 200mm) and it depends on the type of topic you want to shoot more because the focus will be longer and there will be a "safe distance" between respectable topic and the front lens of the objective. This can become a real argument on insects afraid ;-)).

However, 180mm or 200mm macro is not necessarily a panacea for weight and maneuverability of these goals can become a handicap compared to a 100mm. So, be careful to choose the lens that best suits your needs.

Another point not to be overlooked when choosing a macro lens is whether the focus (focus) is internal (FI internal focus), in which case the size of the objective remains the same regardless of the magnification ratio and is a big advantage over an optical non-FI. Indeed, with a view not IF, the greater the magnification ratio will increase and more objective and will grow by. Similarly, reduced the distance between the front lenses of the subject. This is a handicap.

Working distances (target / subject) in approximate ratio 1 / 1:

• ~ 08-10 cm for a focal length of 50mm
• ~ 14-15 cm for a focal length of 100mm
• ~ 22-24 cm for a focal length of 180/200mm

Moreover, if the photographer looking for higher magnification ratios 1 / 1 and for this it uses extension tubes on a macro lens. Well, you should know that the longer the focal length will be long and less increase in magnification ratio will be important! In this case, it is unquestionably the 50mm that will achieve the highest magnifications but more than ever, to the detriment of the safe distance. For me, it is unquestionably the 100mm macro which is the most versatile because you can enjoy a safe distance from the subject, while having a goal that knows enough to stay compact, lightweight ... and much less expensive than 180/200mm.

[Andrew]

Focus

The magnification ratio and the low depth of field in macro photography without the autofocus is not very useful (or even the reverse if the AF is not very efficient) because they spend their time "crunching" to try to catch the point. More and is happy for artistic expression, only the photographer is able to choose to focus on a specific retailer to bring its subject better. So if you use a DSLR, it is necessary to disengage this automatic return to the old manual focus but with one important difference: in fact, in this case, the focus ring is not that determining a ratio of magnification, and then performs the sharpness by moving the camera itself, from front to rear and vice versa.

In the case of NPC, we have no choice but to trust the autofocus and if the latter is the development continues, it will compensate for small movements of the photographer or the subject between the time or you press the shutter button halfway and the moment you take the actual picture ;-)). Now, if your camera is autofocus point and then stops. All is not lost but it will do your best not to move until the picture is taken. The depth of field is determined mainly by the aperture. A small aperture (high f values) generates a greater depth of field of a large aperture (low f values). In compact cameras that do not have the ability to change targets the camera-lens combination is important because each room has its own specific focus minimum check the manual to verify this information.

Challenges in Macro Photography

Also, many compact does not allow you to manually select the aperture. This means that if the subject is not well lit, the room will tend to select a large opening, and then we will have a small depth of field. In the case of poor light depth can be reduced to a few millimeters. In the case of shallow depth of field is important to place the subject parallel to the camera (see figure). Keep as much as possible parallel is the best way to ensure that the depth of field is uniform throughout the image.
The most popular compact cameras, the distortions induced by the objective may be enhanced by working in macro mode. If you notice distortion, does not mean that something is not objective or in the room, but simply that the goal was not designed for use in the main macro. In many cases just to avoid pronounced vertical or horizontal image. Even the distortion of perspective is possible, just as wide-angle lenses.

The second challenge posed by the macro the photographer is to provide a uniform illumination to the subject, and this can be quite difficult when the camera is very close to the subject. The flash cannot be used effectively because, being too close, can alter the colors and lead to overexposure of the image. In these cases it is much better to exclude the flash and take a different approach.

A great solution for those who make heavy use of macro photography is represented by the ring flash terminal applicable to the target. Self-powered, requires no connection to the camera and produces a perfectly uniform illumination, even if power is not high. The flash is triggered by the flash of an ordinary room.

When working outside you can take advantage of sunlight and a reflective surface to soften the shadows. Inside you can get good results with normal household light bulbs and simple reflective surfaces. In this case, do not forget to choose the right white balance for incandescent or fluorescent. Reflectors can be used as mirrors or white cards. A variation is to wrap the cardboard with aluminum foil to increase its reflectivity. If necessary, use reflectors to distribute more light on the subject. In all these cases need to experiment with different solutions before finding one that gives the best results.

If the camera has zoom is not necessary to stand too close to the subject. This is particularly useful in cases where it is impossible to have good lighting. The zoom to the back room, illuminate the subject properly, always having a full screen image. Beware of vibration when using the zoom, it is best to stabilize the camera on a tripod and, if necessary, also use the timer. Use of digital camera is the best way to get excellent macro photography. Some rooms can be placed up to 2 or 3 cm from the subject. And then the opportunity to see the picture before the picture gives us a chance to make the necessary corrections in advance.

What you should know about Macro Photography

Macro photography, or pictures taken close-up, can be made incredibly cutting easier by using a digital camera. The very nature of the room allows you to get the perfect shot, without wasting film, since you can check your picture and make adjustments.

Why Do I Need To Know About Macro Photography?

If You Have Ever Wanted to take a picture of something intricate or even captures the smile in your child's eyes, you can benefit from Correctly Knowing how to take a close-up picture. There is an art to this process, and it's not hard to learn. You'll be Able to capture the smallest detail in no time, Just by Following These Easy Steps.

Camera Features

Many cameras on the market today have a feature built in all ready for macro photography. If you are not sure if your room is one of them, please consult the user manual for your camera's model. Once You Have Determined Indeed if your room does allow for macro photos, you are ready to begin.

Understanding Depth of Field

Many shots, when taken close up, it tends to be blurry in Areas, or at the very least, not as crystal clear as the object in the center. This is two to a Lack of depth of field.

The perfect close-up shot has a depth of field behind the object. That is half and half in front. How can you achieve this?

• Do not get any closer to the object than is absolutely necessary.
• Increase the lighting on the object in order to stop down the aperture.
• Try to find a focal point for the lens That is in the middle of the shot, from front to back
• If you double allow you to select an opening, try selecting a small aperture.

A Selecting Proper Background

This isn't always easy, especially if you are outdoors. But, one of the main keys to success macro photography is the selection of a background that is compatible with your subject. Be sure to consider reflection and color as you select a background for your shot. A neutral color will work the best, Such as tan or gray. If you need to use black, white or colored another, pay attention to the texture of your background. For example, a soft fabric, Such as velvet, Will Not Reflect light would like poster board.

Lighting

Lighting, as in all photographs, is essential to macro photography. You will need to consider the shape of your subject, while selecting the proper light. For example, a flat object will need even illumination, while objects that are low, or Have great detail, will need to haves cross-lighting in order to pick up all of the details. You will need to experiment to see if direct lighting will work best for your shot, or if you would be better served by soft or diffused lighting. The key to success is experimentation with lighting. It Will Take Some Time to get it right, but the reward will be the perfect shot.

To Flash or Not to Flash

Using a flash can make the difference in your shot. By using a flash you can Increase your depth of field and make your opening smaller, Which Will Increase the quality of your shot. However, the built-in flash chamber with your room that not may be sufficient. You will need to experiment and look into external flashes if you decide to use this option.

How to Click Macro Photography

• Install the macro lens on your camera with flash and open measure the distance between the flash and the front lens, add 1 "and cut two pieces of tape allumnium in the same length.
• Wrap the tape over to a tube of 12-14mm into the metal to the inside, taped to the tube made.
• Combine with aluminum tape the two tubes obtained, and shaped a bit 'a rectangle to cover the emitting surface of the Flash pop-ups.
• IMPORTANT The termination of the tubes, the subjective side, we must realize the light diffuser, I used opaque tape, maybe a strip of 2 cm obtained from the white plastic grocery bags.
• A plastic rod will keep the pipes open over the target, okay a plastic spoon in the coffee vending machines.
• We set the group of light guides on the camera, a bit 'of aluminum tape for the flash head and double-sided tape to put the whole lens.
• Assemble the macro perspective on your camera with flash and measure the distance Opened Between the flash and the front part of the object, add 1 cm and cut two pieces of tape length of the examination.
• Wrap the tape over to a tube from 12-14mm holding the metal part inwards September with adhesive tapes the tube Realized.
• Joining with tape of the two aluminum tubes Obtained, and Some shaped 'a rectangle to cover the surface of output Flash pop-ups.
• The termination of IMPORTANT pipes, side subject, we must realize the speaker of light, I used opaque adhesive tape, and it should be a good strip by 2 cm derived from the white plastic bags spending.
• A plastic wand we will open pipes on the goal, it should be a good teaspoon of plastic coffee vending machines.
• Let the group of optical guide’s room burdens' of aluminum tape for the flash head and double-sided adhesive tape to support everything on. "

Quick Tips
You can use the macro focus setting for taking close-up images (0.1 m to 0.5 m).

• Press the Mode button until the macro icon in the status LCD. If the Live View function is active, the icon will also appear on the screen image.
• Use the image screen to frame the subject of the image (optical viewfinder does not provide an accurate representation of a picture taken in macro mode.)
• Press the shutter button fully to capture the image

[Andrew]

Best Macro Lenses

Canon Macro EF 100 F2, 8 L IS USM

The selection of a macro lens is always a delicate issue and we now that Canon offers a choice between two similar targets in its range of "macro" with the Canon EF 100 MACRO F2, 8 USM and Canon EF 100 MACRO F2, 8 L USM, I suggest a little comparative picture in the context of use in relation to the Macro 1 / 1 to see any differences between these two lenses mounted on a housing Canon 5D Mark 2. The accessory ensuring greater compatibility is without doubt the windshield (or close up) which is used exactly like a filter by simply screwing in front of the lens. Beware, there are different models ranging from windshield simplest (single lens untreated) to complex (windshield achromatic lens consists of two treatments with multilayer) and I think it is needless to point out that these differences found both in the optical quality than the price of these accessories.

Moreover, the power magnifying or power of the cups is characterized by the number of Power: +1 D, +2 D, +3 D, +4 D and +10 D will be even larger than the number is high but on the other hand, it will be at the cost of deterioration in the coverage of the starting optical. In fact, the compromise is good (in my opinion) around the bonnets with a power of 2 to 4 Diopters (as focal length objectives on which they are mounted) and this enhancement is almost unavoidable when the using a device whose purpose is fixed.

Olympus E-330 Digital SLR

The Olympus E-330 is equipped with an angle monitor, similar to the one found on the C-8080WZ. Measuring 2.5 inches (6.2 cm) diagonally, it is composed of 215,250 pixels and is fitted with a protective surface glare. You can tilt down 45 ° or 45 ° the fall and 90 ° . Indeed, in addition to its TTL optical viewfinder - which is done moving the mirror horizontally, which gives him a ride to offset of the exit pupil instead of a prism on top of housing - the E-330 has a system for viewing directly on the monitor image from the lens. The camera has obviously PASM manual modes to express your creativity and artistic sensibility. A major innovation lies in the fact that the Panasonic Lumix LX5 features a 720p HD video mode in AVCHD Lite with a button for direct access and mini-HDMI output.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 also contains a connector on the back of the product in order to connect an electronic viewfinder, but also an optical viewfinder directly via the claw (Sights Optional). His screen 3''reached its resolution of 460 000 points.

Features:

• High-performance 7.5 million pixel Live MOS sensor
• Professional results for everyone
• Ready for all kinds of applications
• Supersonic Wave Filter Dust
• Olympus E-System lenses

Canon EOS T2i (Rebel T2i, Canon 550D)

With a definition of 18 million pixels, the Canon EOS 550D competes with much more expensive competitors models. This SLR offers improved video mode 1920 x 1080 Full HD, a sighting by the screen and an effective range of features and impressive features. It is aimed at demanding users while remaining accessible to any photographer, amateur or experienced, and thus constitutes an excellent compromise.

Panasonic Digital Camera DMC-LX5

The Panasonic Lumix LX5 replaces the famous LX3 after 2 years of life cycle. He always addresses a clientele of insiders, greedy and sharp features differentiating. The product supports a new High Sensitivity CCD sensor of 10 megapixels, a combined optical Leica Summicron F2.0-3.3 DC for a still image quality more precise and detailed. The 3x optical zoom, 8 was significantly increased and the Panasonic DMC-LX5 can always make the clichés Ultra Wide Angle 24mm.

• APS-C CMOS sensor with 18 Megapixels
• Sensitivity: ISO 100-6400 (Ext. ISO 12800)
• Quick Selection screen to change exposure modes
• Full HD video recording with manual settings
• Cropping feature video
• Socket for external microphone
• Compatible with Eye-Fi connection

More Recommended Models

• Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS

Attractive combination of comfort, excellent image quality and exquisite design, the IXUS 105 will leave a lasting impression. With 12.1 megapixel resolution, 28 mm wide-angle lens and Smart Auto for optimal image results are also recorded in precise detail. Motion Detection technology, the camera is different from subject movement of camera shake. Subsequently, the ISO sensitivity to optimize image quality automatically adjusted.

Canon PowerShot G11

Order processing, the Canon G11 as a compact camera to identify and ergonomics, but it is big and bulky, therefore, with more than 400 g arg. Only the camera is off deep inside recessed lens makes the G11 just coat pocket fit. Nevertheless, take the Canon G11 like the obvious: The metal and plastic housing is very robust and continues the fine tradition of Canon's professional G-Series. It even offers the first time in the G6 again a swivel and flip screen. However, he is a diagonal size of 2.8 "is slightly smaller than the 3" monitor, the G10. He also makes the new G11 a little chubby and - more importantly: The flip and swivel mechanism takes up so much space that the Canon typical selection ring on the back become smaller.

Who has not exactly pianist hands, will do with the rotating ring shrunk somewhat difficult, especially in the interior of the ring, five selectors are in hearty courage access actuated accidentally by the thumb. The dedicated dials for ISO setting (ISO 80 to 3,200 and car) as well as exposure compensation (maximum of + / - 2EV) has kept the G11 thankfully. Very beautiful are the timing marks and lit recessed power button. The zoom rocker is ergonomically set as dial around the shutter button.

More Recommended Models

• Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS
• Canon PowerShot A3100 IS

Nikon Coolpix P100

Nikon incorporates illuminated CMOS sensor that can be seen this season on various devices in the market for a better sensitivity (which goes here up to 6400 ISO), less noisy images and the ability to acquire images continuously until 10 per second to give engineers the opportunity to offer a Nikon HDR mode in which the camera takes two pictures at two different exposures and assembled to give a picture to the dynamic range. This is the HDR scene mode available on the P100. Full HD is that the Nikon P100 will turn its videos while enjoying the powerful 26x zoom and 30 frames per second with H.264 encoding.

However, the P100 mark a real change from the P90, which suffered the same problem, but more pronounced. The new sensor provides images more presentable, but still too dirty in low light for a larger or a tight crop. In addition, the device is not free of chromatic aberration, the purple bands that alter the contour of certain subjects taken in strong light, such as branches against the sky. Nikon Coolpix P100 is a unique system. Wonderful photographic toolbox, it provides, provided they do not expect images of exceptional quality, have fun in many different ways like HD video editing, cons, spectacular diving, wide angle, ultra zoom, burst, etc

Advantages

Very good optical quality for studding achromatic (with 2 lenses but quite expensive) since the objective is working in its nominal range of development and that is the windscreen that reduces the distance focus. With a windshield upscale (two multi-coated achromatic lenses) the final result will be better than with extension rings.

Maximum compatibility, no loss of light (since no increase in the draw), ease of use, no impact on the automation of the NPC or DSLR (light metering, autofocus), not Removal of the lens mount for the windshield which prevents introduction dust in the mirror box.

Disadvantages

In the case of windshield single lens => loss of quality (surface air / glass additional optical aberrations and / or color), it is best not to mount several bonnets to increase the magnification ratio.