Featured Technique

Take This Shot: Nature

Achieving the perfect shot of a flower is harder than it might first appear. You’re more likely to be able to achieve it with a digital SLR combined with a macro  ens. However, if you’re using a compact, switch to the Macro mode, and use the camera at its closest focusing distance. For a shot like this, use the smallest aperture available (anywhere between f/11 and f/22 is best). If you increase the aperture, then the depth of field  narrows, which is desirable in order to concentrate focus on the central subject, and blur out the background.

You’ll find that because you’re working at such small apertures, there’s not going to be a lot of light. For a simple solution, use your on-board flash, set to the fillin setting, and use a reflector to help bounce the light around. Take our advice and don’t be tempted to wait for a really sunny day to maximise the light, as the sun will only produce shadows, harsh lighting and flare. A sunny but overcast day is best, as the clouds will help to diffuse the light. In order to take the shot, you’ll need to get yourself and your camera down low. A tripod is essential for steadying your camera, but it needs to be one that can get down to ground level and is sturdy. If you don’t have a tripod with you, rest the  camera on a stable surface and use the self-timer to take the image.

1. Water droplets

Working in the rain is a difficult task, as many flowers will close up their petals for protection. The best thing  to do is wait until just after a shower, or fake it by taking along a small spray bottle filled with water.

2. Perfect lighting

For the best lighting try and avoid overly sunny days. This will create flare and harsh shadows. Instead, wait for an overcast sky – the clouds will act as a natural diffuser – and use reflectors and flash to create even lighting.

3. Macro focus

For the best effect you’ll need to crop in as close as you can get to your subject, making it fill the frame. This may be more difficult on a compact camera set to its Macro mode, as it cannot necessarily focus as close as a dedicated DSLR and macro lens setup.

4. Creative depth of field

To keep the flower in sharp focus you’ll need to use the smallest aperture available on your camera. However, if you want to blend the background away with soft blurring, increase your aperture slightly to narrow your depth of field.

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