Magnificent macro

Get closer to your subjects for stunning depth-of-field effects

05 Get a super shallow depth-of-field

The closer you’re able to focus on your subject, the more shallow your depth-of-field is going to be. So a macro lens is perfect for blurring backgrounds, or isolating a small part of your subject in sharp focus. We opened the back of a pocket watch to reveal the gears inside, as these will look fantastic up-close. Set your camera up on a tripod and set your macro lens to its 1:1 reproduction ratio for maximum macro effect, then move your item on a table towards or away from the lens until the precise part you want to be in-focus is sharp.

04 Achieve beautiful bokeh

All you need for this shot is a colourful sheet of paper – A3 is a good choice as you’ll need to turn this into an infinity curve. Do this by bending it and then hang up some fairy lights in the background, creating the ‘bokeh’ behind your subject. We used this toy robot that’s full of character, but you could just as easily use an ornament, or an old film camera – have a look around and you’re bound to find something that will work, then place it on the base of your infinity curve. To take the shot, go into Aperture Priority and dial in the widest aperture you have, this will be f/3.5-6.6 on most kit lenses which will work great. Many macro lenses will be able to open a little wider than this and will appear to be more shallow because you can focus closer. Compose on a tripod and activate the 2 sec Self-timer mode to take the shot.

06 Use miniature figures

Use miniature models so you can turn a bowl of cereal into a macro swimming pool, or food into a forest, and produce some fun and inventive images. A macro lens with a reproduction ratio of 1:1 will really help you get closer to the mini figures. It will also make the figures look more life-size, but you can get reasonable results with a kit lens.