TEN TOP TIPS

Quick-fire advice to refresh your memory and whet your appetite

USE SOFT LIGHTING

outside, it’s better to take photos in overcast or low light in order to avoid harsh shadows on your subjects.

GET DOWN

shoot at the same level as your subjects, rather than from above, to create a more immersive view.

SIMPLIFY THE BACKGROUND

set a wide aperture or set up a plain backdrop behind your subjects to create a simple, uncluttered background.

FILL THE FRAME

Moving in close to a flower so that it takes up the whole frame can create a powerful image.

LEARN TO ARRANGE

if you are working with a florist, check before you tweak the flowers. remember that arrangements usually have a front side.

ENTER COMPETITIONS

Many of the pros featured here have been shortlisted in international Garden Photographer of the Year. entering contests can help to focus your eye.

CLEVER CAMERA MODES

When photographing in fast-changing light, use aperture priority so that the camera can adjust settings quickly.

CONSIDER COLOUR

complementary hues often occur in nature. Try capturing colours opposite or next to each other on the colour wheel.

STYLE THE SCENE

small details, such as adding a spray of mist or water, can freshen up the look of flowers in your final image.

FIND THE ANGLE

Whether in the studio or outside, make sure you move around your flowers to find the most attractive side to photograph.