Focus to Frame | Photography by Donald Pash
Mastering the art of macro photography in nature takes time and patience, but knowing when, where, and how will make it easier for you. You will find an abundance of subjects, from your backyard to the local park systems to do macro photography. You don't need to travel long distances to get great macro subjects. I took the photo you see on this post of the dragonfly's head in my back yard with my digital SLR and 50MM macro lens. Macro is much different from other forms of nature photography because we sometimes shoot subjects within inches of the camera. A digital SLR camera will work best for macro, and as far as what brand, I've seen them all, from the 6-megapixel to the 24-megapixel, used by photographers. Matching the right macro lens with the subjects you plan to shoot is essential. Macro lenses will range in focal length from 50mm to 200mm. 50mm and 60mm lenses are suitable for shooting stationary subjects, but the short working distance between you and the item can make it tough for capturing butterflies, dragonflies, and other small insects that will flee as you get close. When shooting small insects, you will need something in the 90mm to 105mm range.
