Use a ball-head on your tripod.

One of the biggest macro tips we can provide is to use a ball-head, like the Arcatech GP Ball-Head. When using one of these versatile heads, you can position and reposition the camera quickly, as the joint allows free movement, horizontally or vertically in any direction. All it takes is one simple unlock knob, rather than three locks found on less efficient 3-way heads. The difference can be the iconic shot you capture, compared to the photo you miss because you were not able to get the camera in the right composition in time.

If you can’t afford a macro lens try an extension tube.

These hollowed out tubes are convenient for two reasons. First, by attaching an extension tube between your camera body and your existing lens (say a kit lens), you increase the distance of the rear element of your lens from the camera’s sensor. The advantage of this will be a magnification of the focal length, enabling you to get much closer to your subject. The second advantage of extension tubes is their lower price in comparison to macro lenses. As this is the case, they can be a great way to get started in macro photography. One thing to keep in mind about extension tubes is that some extension tubes do not have the necessary connections to allow the electronics in your lens to function. If you plan on using a lens without electronics any extension tube that is compatible with your camera body and lens mount will work.

Use lighting equipment.

When photographing subjects close up one of the issues, you may face is the lack of available light. A macro lenses ability to gather light at wide apertures is not significant due to the physical distance from the subject. To counteract this, it is often necessary to use a macro flash system or for a less expensive setup, would be to use LED panels. Once you have the extra light, we recommended you set up a light or flash on two sides of your subject as this will help eliminate shadows.

Research what you are photographing.

Once you have obtained the equipment, you require it is worth doing a bit of research on what you will be photographing. For instance, if you are looking at capturing images of insects in their natural habitat find out when they will likely to be around, what their breeding seasons are and what behaviours you should expect to encounter and capture.

Some of these things can be understood online, but understanding qualities like behavioural characteristics are best left to fieldwork. By studying the insect, you want to photograph; you will only be successful in learning when to press the shutter button based on the insect's behaviour at any given time in the year.

We would love to see some of your macro shots. If you like to share some of your macro shots please post them on our facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/Acratech/ https://www.facebook.com/Acratech/