Equipment

Tripod

• As you get closer to your subject, even small camera movement can blur a photo

• A tripod takes camera movement out of the equation
• Look for a “ball head” mount that allows quick 360 degree movement

Digital SLR

• Allows the most control while still having the option of automatic modes

• Canon Rebel XTi, Nikon D40 are example of lower priced ($600-700) high quality cameras

Macro Lens

• A lens for SLR’s that allow very close focus

• Macro magnification ratio
  • Higher ratio allows “closer” focus (1:1 is higher than 1:4)
  • 1:1 means that you can photograph something the same size as the camera's sensor (~1"x1/2")
  • With a 1:1 macro lens, a 1"x1/2" subject can fill the whole photo (& be blown up to 8.5x11” or larger)
  • Look for 1:4 with a macro zoom lenses
  • Specialized macro lenses can have 1:1 or higher ratios
• Good quality lens manufacturers: Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina

Digital “Point and Shoot” with close up mode

• 6 megapixel and larger enough for 8.5 x 11” prints

• Will need manual focus for extreme close-ups
• See if accessory macro lenses are available

Clamp for stabilizing flower

• Stake with twine

• Specialized device with soft clamp and adjustable arm such as the McClamp

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