Technique
1. Butterflies Butterflies are beautiful even to the naked eye, but astounding details are revealed when you get closer with a macro set-up. Be warned, they’re tricky to photograph, but a lot of living macro subjects are so don’t get downhearted. Try going out early in the mornings when butterflies are more restful and covered in dew. Or visit a butterfly enclosure, where the inhabitants are used to being surrounded by people. When you are making images, use a wide aperture to isolate your subject against a blurred background and a vibrant Film Simulation like Velvia to make colours pop.
2. Insects
POINT in AF MODE to control the precise zone of focus you want. You can also try working a few steps away from your camera using FUJIFILM XApp. Get a tripod and compose on some greenery likely to attract a nearby insect, enter Live View Shooting within the app, then control your camera fully without scaring away your miniature subjects.
Much like butterflies, bees, dragonflies, grasshoppers and other insects all look incredible at macro scale. You’ll see details you never knew existed. They are even more challenging than butterflies, however, so you will need to be thoughtful in your approach. Autofocus is a must. In your camera’s AF/ MF SETTING menu, set SUBJECT DETECTION to ANIMAL if available, or choose SINGLE
3. Water
Water is usually an easy macro subject – the only consideration you will ever have to make is freezing movement. The key is to ensure you have enough light, and balance aperture and ISO so that your shutter speed remains high.
There are many ways you can photograph water, but all lead to unbelievable macro still lifes. You’ll find droplets on countless objects after it’s rained and an abundance of natural sources – and making a set-up at home is an effortlessly simple task.
FUJIFILM Focus Magazine 15
August/September 2024
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