Help with Maco

ianbarber

ianbarber

Messages
882
Name
Ian
Edit My Images
Yes
This subject has got the better of me now.

I have been watching threads and images that have been posted with some outstanding Macro work of insects, dragon flies etc.

I have been trying these myself and with 100% failure.

The equipment I have to hand is the following.


Nikon D700 or D300 camera
Nkon 70-200 f2.8 + 1.7X TC
Sigma EX Macro lens - 105 mm - F/2.8
Manfrotto Tripod
SB900 Flash​

Can anyone please tell me first of all if I am wasting my time trying to take Macro images of insects etc with the above and also what settings and technique do you use to capture this fast moving creatures.
 
You have all you need. I am just starting out with macro too and its a right wotsit. I think it is just lots of practice, getting used to the depth of field and finding the right subjects in the right place!

You will probably be better off with the D300 and the macro lens to start off. You may also want to consider a flash to keep the shutter speed up. I have been trying to get my aperture up to around f8-11 at least for a usable depth of field. There are loads of helpful peeps in the macro section though and they all seem very friendly!
 
I've only been doing it for a few weeks, but I would say forget about the tripod straight away. It's just deadweight, and no help for shooting moving insects.

The Sigma lens should be fine, but I would suggest using your flash too, preferably attached to a bracket of somesort, then you can use a narrower aperture, which makes focusing easier.

Here is the "rig" I've been using so far. I've been using my normal 70-300mm, with Raynox attachment.
4809129399_c6776ec2bf_z.jpg
 
D300 & Sigma 105mm - very good macro combo - its what i used to use:D

If you've got a external flash stick in on the camera in full auto mode with a diffuser fitted.

Switch the body and lens to manual focus - wind the lens out to its closest focusing distance , which is its maximum magnification.

Set the camera to full manual - ISO 200 - 1/200 - f16


go take some shots - rock the camera backwards and forwards to focus - practice on a ruler :thumbs:
 
menthel said:
You have all you need.
You will probably be better off with the D300 and the macro lens to start off.
Click to expand...

I agree with Jim.

I'm also a macro novice (Canon 400D and Sigma 150mm EX f/2.8)

I am trying to set up a couple of flashes on brackets, but daylight and a white card reflector works pretty good.

Look at Show us your macro rig - there's plenty of people getting good results with a decent lens (which you have) and a flash/plastic-bottle diffuser setup.

I think the main thing is now patience and practice - it's great when it works !
 
ianbarber said:
Wow thats quite precise.

WHat settings did you use for this shot paul
Click to expand...

:D

maximum magnification is only achieved at the minimum focus point of the lens so as you adjust focus from there you are effectively reducing the lens magnification.

shot 1

Creation date: 13/09/2007 10:22
Camera: NIKON D300
Focal length: 105*mm*(equiv. 157*mm)
Aperture: F16
Exposure time: 1/320"
ISO speed rating: 200/24°
Program: Manual
Metering Mode: Spot
White Balance: Auto
Flash: Flash fired, compulsory flash mode, return light not detected

Shot 2

Creation date: 16/06/2007 11:47
Camera: NIKON D300
Focal length: 105*mm*(equiv. 157*mm)
Aperture: F11
Exposure time: 1/125"
ISO speed rating: 200/24°
Program: Manual
Metering Mode: Spot
White Balance: Auto
Flash: Flash fired, compulsory flash mode, return light not detected
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top