DWHJR Loc: Kannapolis NC

Trying to learn macro photography. CC please. thanks

1


2

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Both of your images are quite contrasty, which is usually an indication of sunlight illumination. This is one reason macro-photographers eventually progress to controllable, speedlight illumination.

Also, when photographing animals, people, or insects, it is essential to keep eyes in focus. Your beetle is fine, but your bee eyes are soft.

DWHJR Loc: Kannapolis NC

Nikonian,thanks for your comments. I was using a Canon 430 EX II speedlight at 1/4 power with homemade diffuser. Maybe I should have gone up a little on the power, what are your thoughts please. Thank you again.

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Your 430 EX II is an excellent speedlight for macro illumination. Set your speedlight to Manual output, select widest coverage pattern, and drop down "Wide Panel" Fresnel diffuser. Now attach a softbox diffuser. The wider the face, the more even illumination on your subject. The closer the softbox face is to subject, the shorter the flash duration, the quicker the recycle time, and the longer the battery life in the field.

I strongly suggest using a a diffuser with a face at least 6x8-inches. Mine is a FotoDiox that cost about $13, but can be found cheaper: http://www.amazon.com/gp/item-dispatch/ref=olp_atc_fm_2
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y30334/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=

DWHJR Loc: Kannapolis NC

Thanks again!