PRO TECHNIQUE SHOOT A MACRO STILL-LIFE

1 Create your own mini studio

Set up on a table where there’s enough light to see what you’re doing, but the ambient light isn’t too strong. Place some matt-black card on the table top, position your leaf subject in place, and set your camera on a tripod.

3 Use Depth of Field Preview

With a macro lens, the depth of field is limited. If you are using a DSLR, the Depth of Field Preview button enables you to see its effect. Check the effect in Live View, as the image doesn’t darken like it will in the viewfinder.

2 Use Live View to compose

It’s best to use Live View when you are tweaking the composition, as you can immediately see the effects of any compositional changes. Use the base card to move your subject, rather than adjusting the camera position.

4 Light the scene

Move the LED lamp around to see the effect it has. For a textural appearance, position it to the side. In Live View it’s easy to see what’s happening; this will also help you to see what exposure compensation is needed, too.