7.10.2010

macro monday

I had a few hours alone (gasp!) last Saturday, so I packed up the camera and headed out to a local rose garden. Lately I have been inspired by Ashley at Ramblings and Photos, and she is a master at macro photography. She also has me breaking the 10th commandment as I am coveting her new macro lens. I don't have a dedicated macro lens, so I had to get a little creative with my cropping.

I'm not a pro, (you've realized that by now, right?), and I always say I learn something new at each photo shoot. Here are a few things I learned this time:

1. If you're bending down to take pictures of flowers and your hair is long, consider tying it back. Unless you are working on patience or some other type of character-building, untamed hair in combination with photographing flowers on a windy day should be avoided at all costs. At the very least, wear a hair bob on your wrist. You'll thank me later.

2. If possible, try to go on a cloudy day. Just like harsh lighting is not flattering to people, neither is it flattering to flowers. You will have blown out areas, harsh shadows and all-around yuckiness. (This has taken me a while to get through my thick head. Seems like flowers would be beautiful in the sunlight, right? You'll have much more even lighting if it's cloudy...or if you can find a shady spot).

3. Try to avoid going at 11:00am when it's 90 degrees and 90% humidity. This might cause feelings of general grumpiness.

4. Consider taking a friend. Or some pepper spray. What interesting characters you will find at a rose garden, even at mid-morning. If your friend is not needed for security detail, maybe she will help you hold back your hair.

You're welcome.

Here are a few of my favorites:
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13 comments:

Ashley Sisk said...

Oh you have done me proud - these are beautiful Karli! I never would have known that you didn't have a dedicated macro lens. What lens did you end up using? Before I had a dedicated macro, I used my 55-250 mm lens which I still think takes great "macro" shots. I just don't like to get that close to my subjects.

I also love your macro tips - all good tips and lessons I've learned the hard way.

Aleasing said...

Absolutely beautiful!!!

Anna said...

Wow, wow WOW! I am loving the butterfly one, and the super-close-ups of the pink, red and peach roses. Lovely job! :)

Mama Hen said...

Karli, I love all of these beautiful pictures! The butterfly is gorgeous! This just confirms I need a new camera. :) I hope you had a great weekend!

Mama Hen

Krukow Family said...

I am jealous those are great...Do you happen to have your recipe for how you developed your first picture? I am trying to understand PSE and textures and if you could lend a helping recipe I would appreciate it. I think you and Ashley have great pictures...I am jealous!

Unknown said...

Those are amazing!!!

I love the butterfly one, and the one right under it.

Great job!

Unknown said...

Goodness knows you don't need a macro lens when you can get shots like this without one! Amazing!

elizabeth said...

stunning photos - wow!!!
A macro is a bit down on my list right now -
but the butterfly is my favorite!!!
beautiful, beautiful photos

Carol said...

I am stopping by from Mama Hen's blog. I noticed your photography related comment. I am a novice, but passionate, and am always looking for pointers and advice. I can't see your photos because photobucket is blocked at work, but I will follow and comment back on them later.

Mindy McGrew said...

Absolutely amazing, Karli!! I'm in heaven looking at these! I think I missed my calling as a flower fairy....I'll do that in my next life ;o)

Natalie said...

Wowza! You outdid yourself on these!

So many things to try. . .so little time. I'm impressed with all the photos you manage to shoot!

Carol said...

Wow. These are splendid. That butterfly picture takes my breath away. Once I figure out the lenses I do have, then maybe a macro should be on my list ;)

Jane said...

Very beautiful, love the stunning colors.