Essential macro tips I wish I'd known earlier

In this week's tutorial, I give my five best tips for taking better macro photos. I'm not talking about the best camera settings for macro here, or how to use flash light for macro, but instead I'm discussing wider lessons -- attitudes, perhaps -- that I've found have transformed my approach to photography way more than any 'quick focus hack' or 'easy editing tip' has ever done.

By slowing down in my photography, practicing my craft and focusing on what's important and ignoring what isn't (I'm looking at you, Instagram) I've been able to take better images that I'm much more proud of.

Please let me know if you agree or disagree with any of these points. It's been quite a personal video and I'd love to hear your thoughts around it in the comments.

As always, thanks for watching.

#tutorial #macro #photography

[InfectedChris]

I often tell people the reason why I really love macro photography is that it forces you to slow down. You have to stop and really take your time to look for something you want to shoot. Look at things (life) from different perspectives and really capture a subject from a viewpoint that many people simply choose to walk by. That's far more my pace of life as it is.

[robincooney]

Finally, someone talking with passion and knowledge about the craft rather than kit. Subscribed.

[evywisse]

my fav thing about shooting macro, is that you actually see nature, and you look at the details and everything around you, things that i wouldve missed if i never learned about macro

[galesaunders]

Thank you for your video, I recently purchased a macro lens, did the right thing and went on a course so I could learn as much as possible, the course was brilliant and I had a brilliant day. Sadly someone on a camera club social media site put my pictures down saying 'do you actually have a macro lens' and other stuff ? I can take CC totally but his offers got a bit creepy for my liking. The experience has got me down but on watching your video I feel more positive so thank you for that. As you said 'take social media with a pinch of salt' and get on and do what you want and get out there 😃

[kidglove]

I really appreciate what you said about slowing down. It makes a great deal of a difference. I am just really digging into Macro photography. I am looking for all the help I can get.

[danram]

i have taken up photography because i have heart problems and i need to slow down, i feel its an aproach to cover your life thanks your video helped me

[klackon]

What marvellous product images. I agree with your slowing down theory. In the late spring and summer, when there are insects galore, it takes me about 5 hours to walk 5 miles.

[mikefaulkner]

Your channel has inspired me to have a go at Macro Photography. Thank You.

[shlomoeshet]

There are countless times that slowing down and paying more attention to your surroundingד turned out to be so much rewarding. I just recall my last macro session outside my home. While I kept looking at a flying butterfly and trying to get closer I discovered an amazing creature on top of a Milk thistle right under my eyes (literally!). Thank you Andrew for your inspiring video and all the rest.

[normskiash]

I agree with the slow down point. People are curious when they see me crawling around or lying on the ground, with camera, flash, tripod, etc. They want to know what I am photographing, show them on the screen, and the most common comment is "WOW ! I walk round here every day, and I've never seen one of those, or anything like it ! " And my answer is always, "Yes, that's because you are walking, I stop and look, that's why / how I find the insects etc...' Great vlog as always, Thnx

[nirahirs]

I have been using three same camera for years each photo you take is a lesson as you said only when you feel you need to push to next level and your camera gear can only to so much buy new equipment.. Awesome advice from you😊

[iantaylor]

Thank you for sharing this! I have really enjoyed learning from you in the videos I have watched. I appreciate your approach to photography and the production of your videos. Thanks again!

[dougnelson]

Andrew, great video. Very helpful and fun to watch. Cheers.

[ricktablelander]

I'm a beginner with 10 years experience I know that sounds crazy but memory loss doesn't help. Your video is perfect for my small group and your explanations had me answering you --exactly and that's what i need to hear--as you went through Good onya Mate

[djmusicfdy]

Interesting you should make the comment about applying concepts of macro to life. Was just thinking about that this evening. The closer you are to something, the more you have to focus on it. Thanks for an excellent video and a good reminder.

[cgarioch]

Totally LOVE your channel. Always look forward to seeing your next Macro episode. Macro is my first love in Photographic art

[seamediaorg]

Thanks for your thoughts, and especially for all of the time you share out in nature. I do a lot of macro photography myself, and I'm lucky enough to live where there are many forests and beaches I can visit. So I really appreciate the insights from another nature photographer. And even when I'm home, I can feel like I'm still outdoors by watching your videos!

[catherinetremerryn]

Really useful comments. Have just discovered yr channel so v much looking forward to yr videos.

[aguedasanchez]

Wise words that I am trying to follow. Many thanks😊

[joefriday]

Thank you Andrew for giving me that gentle kick in my backside. I found I have been slacking lately by only seeing things that I can't do rather than things that I can with the equipment I have. I have a rather old Nikon D5600 with a Nikon micro 105mm f2.8 lens and I can when I try get really good images . You have just given me the boot I need to get up and get going. Thank you again. Looking forward to your next video.