Post your best Macro shots

[Jayson]

Joel - Glad to see you on this topic and glad to see you like the new toy. Looking forward to more from the macro world. Next thing you know, you'll be purchasing tubes or a MP-E 65mm with some flashes. ;)

Franco - Lovely captures

Pat - Great captures, but I really like the first one. The Yellow and the dark Purple compliment each other well. Your angle is great.

[Jayson]

Here are a couple dandelions. Forgot the spray bottle for the added water effect, but only had a little time and it was windy. I have a couple more on my blog.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_UliZwscrc/T5VqbxmKBZI/AAAAAAAAC14/mLp9rN-nbLo/s640/2012_04_18_EOS+7D_022375+copy.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9eU21mtv6A/T5VqeW0tGWI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/Ey1tP2004f8/s1600/2012_04_18_EOS+7D_022397+copy.jpg

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o-D3Tj9EVdM/T5Vqg7S-4nI/AAAAAAAAC2o/92LV9JJqUeQ/s1600/2012_04_18_EOS+7D_022406+copy.jpg

[Joel Eade]

Joel - Glad to see you on this topic and glad to see you like the new toy. Looking forward to more from the macro world. Next thing you know, you'll be purchasing tubes or a MP-E 65mm with some flashes. ;)



Thanks Jayson,

Actually I have 2 extension tubes already ... I looked at the Canon Macro Twin flash on-line but (wow it's expensive) that will have to wait awhile.

I sold some old music gear and had some cash in PayPal that I used for the lens so I'll have to sell some more stuff on ebay to get the flash:rolleyes:

[Jayson]

Joel, I would try just making something yourself with your 580ex. It works as good if not better in some respects. I use a kenko tc with my 100mm macro all the time for added working distance and magnification and it helps tremendously. I am thinking of upgrading my 100mm to a sigma 150 os. Think that would be an awesome set up!.

I tried the 180mm macro once and it was great for the working distance, the keeping it steady at high magnification was quite a challenge. Found myself on the ground using the human tripod (laying on ground holding camera with elbows resting on the ground) many times more than I would like to count. Gets some good looks from the passers-by. Have fun and enjoy your new toy!

[ddt0725]

Best macro shots I have seen of a dandelion yet, Jason ...very nice work!!

I have been playing alot with textures lately. I still haven't gotten quite the look I am after yet on any of my shots but I'm learning and it is fun!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/6960630314_aa3d63e001_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/6960630314/)
Rose (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/6960630314/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Joel, I would try just making something yourself with your 580ex. It works as good if not better in some respects. I use a kenko tc with my 100mm macro all the time for added working distance and magnification and it helps tremendously. I am thinking of upgrading my 100mm to a sigma 150 os. Think that would be an awesome set up!.

I tried the 180mm macro once and it was great for the working distance, the keeping it steady at high magnification was quite a challenge. Found myself on the ground using the human tripod (laying on ground holding camera with elbows resting on the ground) many times more than I would like to count. Gets some good looks from the passers-by. Have fun and enjoy your new toy!

I am doing just that....I have some wireless triggers and 2 extra 430 EXII speed lights for hummingbirds and I set up a little make shift studio this weekend. My son-in-law and I did some macro experimentation.

This one is a white rose held underwater with 2 flashes, 1D MKIV, 180mm, f/22, ISO 1000, 1/160, tripod and cable release......

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s1/v48/p814236996-5.jpg

[Joel Eade]

Best macro shots I have seen of a dandelion yet, Jason ...very nice work!!

I have been playing alot with textures lately. I still haven't gotten quite the look I am after yet on any of my shots but I'm learning and it is fun!


Rose (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/6960630314/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr



That's neat! I have read about textures and seen some images on other forums, did you get yours from Shadow House Creations?

[ddt0725]

The one posted above was not done with his but with one from a photoediting program I have. This one below I did use two of Jerry's creations from Shadow House Creations ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7108202619_f5e341b7df_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7108202619/)
IMG_7704 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7108202619/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[bob williams]

The one posted above was not done with his but with one from a photoediting program I have. This one below I did use two of Jerry's creations from Shadow House Creations ...

IMG_7704 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7108202619/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

Denise, I really like the artistry you have demonstrated in your recent work----Very Nice touch.

Bob

[ddt0725]

Thank you, Bob! I am always trying to learn new things and using the textures is my newest kick!

[Jayson]

Denise, I never thought I would be in favor of textures, but the ones you have displayed here have changed my mind and I might have to look into those. Fantastic post work!

[ddt0725]

Denise, I never thought I would be in favor of textures, but the ones you have displayed here have changed my mind and I might have to look into those. Fantastic post work! Thank you, Jayson!! Neither was I until I started playing around with them. You can definitely overdue the application (which I have been guilty of) but you can also adjust them to be very subtle even if used just to adjust the lighting or hint of color. The possibilities of just one texture are endless. Right now, I pretty much take someone's texture and I use NIK Color Efex and PS to adjust them and make them my own final texture. Eventually, I want to start from scratch with my own.

[Dr Croubie]

Certainly doesn't qualify to be in the "best" part of this thread, more an experiment to try out some new equipment.
I got off ebay recently an Olympus Bellows system, in absolutely mint condition, for less than $100.
Problem is, I can't afford the proper Olympus Bellows Lenses to go with it (like the 28mm or 35mm, specifically designed for 5x - 12x magnification, sort of like their version of the MP-E), at auction they go for $300-500 maybe once or twice a month, or sometimes I see a Buy It Now for $700.
Another problem is that my 7D flash gets in the way when mounting, so I have to stick a 12mm Kenko Tube (not a big problem, I'm already shooting macro anyway).
And final problem is that of the 2 Olympus OM lenses I've got, one is a Super Ozeck II 28/2.8, up to 1:4 macro on its own. Mount it on the bellows by itself with the Kenko tube and there's too much extension even at infinity focus, the focal point is touching the glass.
The other OM lens I've got is a Helios 28/2.8, a crappy Japanese ripoff, not the nice Soviet ones from KMZ. It's also too close when mounted front-wise, but it's not so bad reverse-mounted (the Ozeck doesn't reverse mount in this rig).

So, given that I can only use 1 lens in 1 configuration, I thought I'd test it out to see how well it does.
And i'm pleasantly surprised by the results, mounted reversely, full bellows extension, at what the lens says is f/9, I'm not doing the numbers to work out "real" aperture (needless to say it's very diffraction-limited, much like the MP-E).

Anyway, here's the setup, until I finish building my ring-lights the 430EX is all i've got.
951


Anyway, shrunk down to 1200x800 the photos doesn't look too bad. This is an uncropped shot, of an 0603 LED (that's 0.06" x 0.03", 1.6mm x 0.8mm), so the whole frame is probably 3x2mm.
952

Not that i'll be taking shots that small every day, but it's nice to know what it's capable of.
Now all I need to do is find something that small to photograph (*waits for a dirty comment*).

[Busted Knuckles]

No I won't let you take a picture of mine.... :)

I used to do the bellows w/ my old canon FD stuff - the canon bellow were truly over engineered, weighed a ton, etc.

I am thinking of getting the 180 just to get some working distance.

[Andy Stringer]

A belated welcome to the macro thread Joel. Those first few are excellent.

Denise, I think your post processing is spot on with those last two shots of yours. I really hope you don't have to let your macro lens go.


I am thinking of getting the 180 just to get some working distance.

The extra working distance makes a big difference, especially with insects. It was a big upgrade from the EF-S 60mm macro that I started with. I don't think I would have been able to get any closer to these subjects without casting a shadow. Both are from yesterday, using natural light.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6975930770_c0a54c80b1_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/apstringer/6975930770/)
5D Mark II, EF180mm f/3.5L Macro USM @f/9, 1/160s, ISO 640

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7256/6975924130_c3ca16340c_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/apstringer/6975924130/)
5D Mark II, EF180mm f/3.5L Macro USM @f/9, 1/160s, ISO 320

[ddt0725]

A belated welcome to the macro thread Joel. Those first few are excellent.

Denise, I think your post processing is spot on with those last two shots of yours. I really hope you don't have to let your macro lens go.

Thanks, Andy! I sold my macro lens about an hour ago :( Oh well, since I also just sold my Sigma 85mm a few minutes ago, I am hoping I will be able to snag a non-Canon less expensive macro lens sometime. Figures I would sell it right when my flowers are starting to bloom in my garden and the butterflies are returning!

BTW - Fantastic shots, nice and sharp and i love the buttery smooth background!!

[neuroanatomist]

Denise, you might consider the Canon 100mm f/2.8 non-L macro - IQ is similar to the L, just lacks IS and weather sealing.

FWIW, there's one on my local CL for $375.

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/pho/2986426305.html

Seller's location is convenient for me - if you're interested, PM me - I can test it, buy it and send it to you.

[Jayson]

Denise, you might consider the Canon 100mm f/2.8 non-L macro - IQ is similar to the L, just lacks IS and weather sealing.

FWIW, there's one on my local CL for $375.

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/pho/2986426305.html

Seller's location is convenient for me - if you're interested, PM me - I can test it, buy it and send it to you.

Denise, all of my macro shots are either with that lens or the 300 f4 IS with extension tubes. It is a great lens and you just have to keep yourself a little steadier than with the IS version. Its a great lens and very good at portraits to I might add. It is almost always available on the refurbished area on the Canon site also if this one is out of the question.

[Jayson]

Here are a couple shots.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VLT4B2A1OkE/T5jClnfp2tI/AAAAAAAAC4I/0L2_1qjYPNQ/s640/2012_04_23_EOS%207D_022550%20copy.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wsNstVnYjXk/T5jCo8CLEGI/AAAAAAAAC4g/aJuWT4CE3gM/s640/2012_04_23_EOS%207D_022595%20copy.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2qC5xSEWg_c/T5jCqHvtk-I/AAAAAAAAC4o/eQy1VEV-tSw/s640/2012_04_23_EOS%207D_022607%20copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KrFeMQgNsPo/T5jCrETgAyI/AAAAAAAAC4w/fWAOQ3zYROc/s640/2012_04_24_EOS%207D_022618%20copy.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-diQ51-22XR4/T5jCsAhdpgI/AAAAAAAAC44/Z7swXTL9dtM/s640/2012_04_24_EOS%207D_022625%20copy.jpg

[Dave Throgmartin]

all of my macro shots are either with that lens or the 300 f4 IS with extension tubes

How do you like the 300mm? Do you ever use it with a 1.4 TC?

Dave

[ddt0725]

Denise, you might consider the Canon 100mm f/2.8 non-L macro - IQ is similar to the L, just lacks IS and weather sealing.

FWIW, there's one on my local CL for $375.

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/pho/2986426305.html

Seller's location is convenient for me - if you're interested, PM me - I can test it, buy it and send it to you.

Thank you, John! That is so nice of you to offer to take the time to do that for me but I #1 cannot have you go through the trouble. Also, I supposedly won't be getting the $ for my macro until mid week or so. So, I don't want to jump the gun in case it falls through.

I used to have the Sigma 70mm w/o IS (or OS) which worked out fine and I really liked the results (the slow AF and noise was annoying). But that was a lighter lens. I think I may need IS on anything bigger. I have a chance at getting a really good deal on the Sigma 105mm with OS but still slightly more than I was hoping to spend and I am not sure how IQ will be on that one.

Maybe I should shoot with my macro lens with the IS turned off for a few days and see how it goes.

[Jayson]

How do you like the 300mm? Do you ever use it with a 1.4 TC?

Dave

Dave, I almost use the lens exclusively with a Kenko 1.4x TC. I don't own a Canon version since the price difference was greater and I can use this with my 100mm macro also. I do like the lens especially using it to catch butterflies and bugs, however I don't really care for it that much when it comes to other stuff like birds. I think I would have much preferred purchasing the 100-400mm zoom if I were to do things all over again. There have been too many times that I wished I could have pulled back and ended up missing the shot I wanted. I think it will come in a little more handy once the oldest kiddo starts playing sports. However, I would probably start using my 70-200mm zoom a little more. It has kind of gathered a little dust in the bag since getting the 300mm. Zoom is just a little long for most applications right now on my 7D. Maybe when the 5D enters the game it will see more use. Sorry for the rambling.

[Jonathan Huyer]

I went to the Calgary zoo yesterday and played around in the butterfly exhibit. Lots of fun!

Canon 5D2, 180 mm f/3.5 macro lens, ring flash, 1/200 sec @ f/11, ISO 400

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z4pg7RNgKic/T59VE8wu-PI/AAAAAAAAb9g/cpv-VwvNdNw/s640/IMG_9635.JPG

[Joel Eade]

Rhododendron flower
1D MKIV
180mm f/3.5L Macro + 2X TC III
Tripod
ISO 3200
f/13
1/60
Ambient light only

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v43/p987720840-5.jpg

[jrw]

It is really nice to see all of the great shots posted here. Now, I just want to go out on a flower and bug safari. It would seem that I needed a good swift kick in my complacency. For those with an anatomical interest, complacency is located in the same vicinity as the laurels when one chooses to rest upon them for too long.

[Sean Setters]

Just for fun...

Canon 7D
70-200mm f/2.8 L IS Mk I
3 Kenko extension tubes, Kekno 1.4x Teleconverter
f/32 1/250sec ISO 100

2 White Lightning Ultrazap 1600s
2 Quantaray shoe-mount flashes
1 scarf
[/URL][URL="http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/6994659580/"] (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/6994659580/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7189/6994659580_fcc4b371e2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/6994659580/)
The Chosen One (http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/6994659580/) by budrowilson (http://www.flickr.com/people/budrowilson/), on Flickr

[Lars]

Hi Sean

You say three extension tubes. How many centimetres (or millimetres if you like) is that? At what focal length did you take the picture (70 or 200 or in between?).

Lars

[Sean Setters]

I used all three Kenko extension tubes that come in the set--12mm, 20mm, and 36mm. The focal length was 182mm when coupled with the 1.4x teleconverter (according to the EXIF), so that means the lens itself was actually set to 130mm. Technically, I could have done the shot without the 1.4x teleconverter, but when I originally set up I was taking pictures of smaller subjects; plus I wanted the advantage (at least advantage in this case) of having one more stop of DOF (up to f/45) if I needed for the particular subject.

[conropl]

A Gray Tree Frog with an identity crisis:rolleyes:... (because he is actually green).
This guy showed up on my window this evening.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7225/7143908901_d0c2161c0c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7143908901/)
Gray Tree Frog-3101 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7143908901/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Speaking of flashes.....do you folks that are experienced Macro shooters recommend the ring flash units or the twin head units for use with the Canon 180mm macro? Which one produces the best results in your opinion?

[HDNitehawk]

Joel

I did allot of research when I bought mine, and opted for the 24ex. I haven't used the 14ex but most of the complaints I remember reading were that it tended to make your subject feel flat because the light is direct and head on.

The complaints about the 24ex are that it is a harsh light, and indeed it is. I bought diffuser for mine. One of the advantages I see in the 24ex is that it gives you more control, both in the flash itself and the ability to adjust, move and remove the heads independently to different locations.

But, my advice for you is that while you would probably make use of either flash, you are well suited with your gear to jump in to macro without either one. With all of your back yard bird gear and off camera flashes I think you have a good equipment foundation to start with. Of course this is just like birding and wildlife; I know we both probably have our eye set on the 500mm II when it comes out.

Rick

Edit: or 600mm II :p

[dsiegel5151]

Joel, get the twin heads. I burrow one from a professor down the hall all the time when I take photos of museum specimens. I love the fact that when I have my camera mounted on a tripod and I'm aiming at something static I can pull the flashes off and hold them wherever I want. You pretty much have infinite ability to fill in shadows or create shadows.

[ddt0725]

On flickr I posted two versions of this texture & flower but I think I like this one more ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7165174530_d7f1ac2581_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7165174530/)
Columbine (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7165174530/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

[bob williams]

Speaking of flashes.....do you folks that are experienced Macro shooters recommend the ring flash units or the twin head units for use with the Canon 180mm macro? Which one produces the best results in your opinion?

Joel, I am not a Macro shooter, but I thought about it once:confused: and purchased the canon ringlight. However, If I had to do it over again I would buy an extra speedlight of your choice and one of these http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/551443-REG/Manfrotto_330B_330B_Macro_Flash_Bracket.html or something like it---It just makes more sense to me now.

Bob

[HDNitehawk]

Joel, I am not a Macro shooter, but I thought about it once:confused: and purchased the canon ringlight. However, If I had to do it over again I would buy an extra speedlight of your choice and one of these http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/551443-REG/Manfrotto_330B_330B_Macro_Flash_Bracket.html or something like it---It just makes more sense to me now.

Bob

Bob your idea I think is a good one. Even if you own the 24ex it is a good one, you can use the bracket and get the two flashes off camera at various angles. It would work with other flashes as well. I have actually thought about buying the Wimberly version of this type of bracket for this purpose. The only thing stoping me is that I haven't had the macro lenses out in five months.

The problem with the ring light and the 24ex is that mounted on the camera the light comes straight dead on. I think it is just like any other flash photography, for the best results get the flashes off the camera.

[bob williams]

On flickr I posted two versions of this texture & flower but I think I like this one more ...



WHoa Denise----Nice Work ---+3 up thumbs

[conropl]

Speaking of flashes.....do you folks that are experienced Macro shooters recommend the ring flash units or the twin head units for use with the Canon 180mm macro? Which one produces the best results in your opinion?

Pick up a copy of the June 2012 Outdoor Photographer magazine. It has an artical about macro flash gear. Basically the artically talks down the ring flashes as creating a flat shot because it creats an even light with no direction. Where as, the twin flashes with a flash brackets allow you to direct the flash to creat depth and fill at the same time. It also gives some flash backet options to choose from. If you do not want the hard copy, here is the web site version of the artical:

http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/how-to/shooting/macro-flash.html

[Kayaker72]

I am thinking about "digitizing" my old print photos not with a scanner but with my macro lens. Any thoughts on which flash would be better for take shots of a photo?

[andnowimbroke]

Wouldn't flash have a bad reaction with a picture? I had issues with storms one year and ruined most of my newspaper shots and all of my travel pics. Rather than stressing, I reached for my 100mm and started taking shots of each straight on with no flash. Everything turned out fine, so I threw the sewer water versions away.

[Jayson]

I am buying this flash bracket to use with my flashes and modifiers. I have seen it in action and it's great. Manfrotto 330B (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001D2CW2I/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER)

[Joel Eade]

Pick up a copy of the June 2012 Outdoor Photographer magazine. It has an artical about macro flash gear. Basically the artically talks down the ring flashes as creating a flat shot because it creats an even light with no direction. Where as, the twin flashes with a flash brackets allow you to direct the flash to creat depth and fill at the same time. It also gives some flash backet options to choose from. If you do not want the hard copy, here is the web site version of the artical:

http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/how-to/shooting/macro-flash.html

Thanks....nice info!

[thekingb]

On flickr I posted two versions of this texture & flower but I think I like this one more ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7165174530_d7f1ac2581_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7165174530/)
Columbine (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7165174530/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

Denise, you could print that on a giclee canvas and sell it for sure. I'd buy it. Nice work.

[Joel Eade]

Thanks all for advice and info re: Macro flash. I decided to go with the Wimberly bracket system and use the flashes I currently have for now.

[ddt0725]

Denise, you could print that on a giclee canvas and sell it for sure. I'd buy it. Nice work.

Thank you! I seriously don't like too many of my photos but I must admit that this one is a favorite of mine also!

This is the version that got "EXPLORED" on flickr. Which, getting your photo noticed on flickr and making the explored list is a very nice compliment.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5119/7166033042_70da5b3bfb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7166033042/)
Columbine_1 - Explored on 5/9/12! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7166033042/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Hey Denise, you should consider writing up a little "How to" tutorial on using textures for the tips section. You know, some basic info about workflow in photoshop etc etc,,, I bet lots of folks would benefit from it.

[bob williams]

Hey Denise, you should consider writing up a little "How to" tutorial on using textures for the tips section. You know, some basic info about workflow in photoshop etc etc,,, I bet lots of folks would benefit from it.

I concur---and one of those would be me:o

[dsiegel5151]

I concur---and one of those would be me:o

+1

[ddt0725]

Thanks guys! I would like to but I myself am in the beginning stages of it and it really is trial and error for me. I can try and put something together to get you started with some links to various textures to download and use for free and some basics to get you started. I have started attempting to make a few of my own textures but that is still a work in progress!

[Joel Eade]

This a Lily, shot with 180mm macro + 2X TC using a tripod and cable release, no flash.

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v45/p462889357-5.jpg

[Jayson]

I shot this out the car window with the 300mm with 1.4x tc. He was giving me all sides. I probably could have moved in a little closer, but he would have been gone.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWMCt6hEGfc/T7HEN11IybI/AAAAAAAADIo/3Uu07Vt3PKo/s1600/2012_05_14_EOS+7D_023631+copy.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZMhbAG_v_0/T7HEOZ5l5CI/AAAAAAAADIw/JYFtIW1n68A/s1600/2012_05_14_EOS+7D_023633+copy.jpg

[Jayson]

Joel, lovely shot of the lilly anthers.

[cls]

Hi, I've collected lots of shots of beautiful spring flowers and buds lately. I haven't really been into this before but I've kind of got to like it. Today it was time to say goodbye to a bunch of tulips that have been on our kitchen table for a week or so, but when I was about to just throw them away, I noticed the beauty of a fading tulip. Of course I had to get a capture also of one of those.

Fading beauty
1041

Thanks for viewing!

[Joel Eade]

Well the flash brackets arrived today so I set up my 1D MKIII with 180mm macro and the 1.4X TC and 2 430 EXII flashes on the wimberly brackets. This makes a heavy and cumbersome rig to carry around but I took a few shots close to my back door....I'm gonna need alot of practice:)

1042104310441045

[Jayson]

Well the flash brackets arrived today so I set up my 1D MKIII with 180mm macro and the 1.4X TC and 2 430 EXII flashes on the wimberly brackets. This makes a heavy and cumbersome rig to carry around but I took a few shots close to my back door....I'm gonna need alot of practice:)


Good start with the lights. I might just use one light and build a little modifier for that light. Might lighten your rig a little bit and still get your light source. I only say modify the light because it looks a tad harsh on the 2nd and 4th shot. I wasn't sure if you were shooting for perfection or not. :D Dont be afraid to get close to those little jumpers, you only then get to see their little personalities. :p

[Joel Eade]

Good start with the lights. I might just use one light and build a little modifier for that light. Might lighten your rig a little bit and still get your light source. I only say modify the light because it looks a tad harsh on the 2nd and 4th shot. I wasn't sure if you were shooting for perfection or not. :D Dont be afraid to get close to those little jumpers, you only then get to see their little personalities. :p

Thanks jayson for the helpful hints, I have aome small diffusers that fit on the 430's....I will try those. I was using the flashes on manual settings, do you think ETTL woul dbe better? On these shots I was just trying things out very quickly and didn't have alot of time so I will have to gradually refine my technique. I really do appreciate any suggestions, it reduces the slope of the learning curve:)

[Jayson]

I was just giving you a hard time before and think you have a great start. I am sure in no time your macros are going to rival your bird photography! Regarding tips, I am by no means great at macro, but do enjoy it very much so I have tried quite a few things.

Cool part about diffusing light for macro work is the diffusers don't really have to be that big because your subjects are usually much smaller if your aiming for bugs. For flowers, I have an Apollo 28 inch softbox that I use inside. I rarely have flowers to photograph and will hopefully have more in the near future. I have to do the planting because the wife really isn't into gardening. :confused: Outside for flowers, I rarely use flash. I usually try to stand or use something to block the direct sunlight (I purchased a 5 reflector kit for portraits that came with a white fabric middle that works pretty well for this). That way you don't have to worry about direct sunlight and clipping any highlights.

For other stuff such as bugs, I tend to use my flashes on manual more that ETTL basically because when using them on ETTL, they are always punching out too much light even when I lower the compensation. ETTL works nicely if you don't want any background in the shot, but not so much if you want fill. I believe it is due to the closeness of the subject and then lens and the resulting light you get by getting that much closer, but I truly have no clue. I usually just use my flash as a fill and not the main light mostly because when I am shooting a bug or something like that, I am usually in broad daylight and rarely under the cover of shade. I try to pop off quite a few shots (with the hope that I can catch them doing something cool) and the recycle time of a manual flash will be faster working at that close of a distance and not blasting at full power. I really am not that great with the set up and go, most of the time it is trial and error on the flash with manual exposure. I know others do use ETTL, but I prefer manual for those reasons.

Here is an example of what I mean about just using fill in broad daylight.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DU0eBUeKp-c/T3S6fdCfG2I/AAAAAAAACsg/ORT-I1iLurw/s640/2012_03_13_EOS 7D_021230 copy.jpg

This was taken on a sandbox at about 2:00 in the afternoon. I probably could have cloned out the flash on the back of the ladybug, but I was lazy. I mainly just try to fill in the shadows that the sun leaves and bring out just a little more detail in those shadows. This makes things a little softer than having the harsh light. I know it's not the best example or my best picture, but it illustrates what I was trying to say about the fill. In this shot I actually was using a lumiquest 80/20 with a fill card, the softbox front and a little foam protector that I got when I ordered pictures. It kills the power of the flash, but makes for very soft shadows. The flash was actually on the hot-shoe for this shot also. Hard to move the rig around with 3 kids wanting to play.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_S7omxzOegA/TE8fqD1Fp4I/AAAAAAAACjE/1gVJWVTZGAU/s800/2010_07_26_05665.jpg

This again, not a great example of perfect work since I chopped off the top half of his wings, but this is why I don't use ETTL. This was in broad daylight again, but the flash put out full power and made the background black. I would have liked a fill and had some of the background in the scene too. There were flowers everywhere.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vASIgpS2SYQ/TFSYefZwM0I/AAAAAAAACjE/CsRe8NwOpOw/s800/2010_07_30_05705.jpg

This one is the perfect example as to why I liked using manual instead of ETTL for closeup macro. I captured two or three shots, I can't remember, and focus stacked this to get all the detail and hairs. If this was firing on ETTL, the flash wouldn't have recycled fast enough and I couldn't have completed this picture like I wanted.

Hope that helps. :D

[Joel Eade]

Thanks, it helps alot.....that last picture of the fly is killer!

[ddt0725]

Not nearly as good as the photos above but here are a few taken with my new Sigma 105mm OS lens I received today! It was pretty windy out and so not the greatest day to take macro shots outside but I just couldn't wait to try it out! Actually, I am pretty pleased with the lens itself.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7224/7218493514_327c0fcd36_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218493514/)
IMG_1850_1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218493514/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7073/7218497530_1201e1d631_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218497530/)
Columbine Flower (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218497530/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7218489556_7e5494e228_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218489556/)
IMG_1738_1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218489556/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5120/7218485126_d68841a232_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218485126/)
Columbine Flower (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218485126/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/7218492522_27aa18d355_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218492522/)
Lupine Flower (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7218492522/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Hey Denise, you should consider writing up a little "How to" tutorial on using textures for the tips section. You know, some basic info about workflow in photoshop etc etc,,, I bet lots of folks would benefit from it.

Many of the textures I use are provided by Jerry Jones @ ShadowHouse Creations. He is one of the few I have found online that allows you to use his textures for commercial and non-commercial purposes. Although there are many, many different techniques to use for applying textures, overlays and backgrounds and even I use a few different ways to get the look I am going for, Jerry has a number of tutorials that I am sure will help those that are interested in learning how. I hope you find it useful ...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/skeletalmess/sets/72157622794823052/

[Jayson]

Denise, those pictures are so crisp. I love the hover fly! Congrats on the new lens!

[Jayson]

Thanks, it helps alot.....that last picture of the fly is killer!

Thanks Joel! I know it was a lot of rambling, but glad it helped. Macro is fun and I hope you enjoy your new toys as much as I enjoy my old ones! :D

[ddt0725]

My daughter and I spent the day yesterday at the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Beautiful place and fun day! We only had time to see about 1/3 of it before we had to catch the train and head back home so we plan to go back again soon!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7089/7227077696_865ca7b63b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227077696/)
IMG_2029 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227077696/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5349/7227080338_17baae3c20_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227080338/)
IMG_2493 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227080338/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5035/7227082980_af24e73836_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227082980/)
IMG_2147 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7227082980/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

More photos to come from the day! Since my Sigma 105mm macro is still under the testing period, please point out anything negative in the photos that I may not be noticing. Softness was intentionally added in post to the rose.

[Jayson]

I realize that for web sized images sharpness is always great, but these seem superb. I think you have a keeper!

[HDNitehawk]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7231347284_d3ff3d9d20_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7231347284/)
Red Flower 3.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7231347284/) by hdnitehawk01 (http://www.flickr.com/people/55888666@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/7228722738_15a7f355d6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7228722738/)
Yellow Rose.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7228722738/) by hdnitehawk01 (http://www.flickr.com/people/55888666@N08/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Wow! Nice floral images Denise & HD .... I am gonna have to find some time to work on my macro technique here soon ... great work!

Denise ... the lens looks like it is functioning just fine to me as well.

[ddt0725]

A few more from the Botanic Gardens. I think you will be seeing shots from here for awhile ...I cannot believe I took so many photos plus I still have to go through the ones my daughter took with a p&s!!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/7233662566_d12a67b5a2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7233662566/)
IMG_2016 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7233662566/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7231537420_9b1ef5815a_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231537420/)
Bleeding Heart of Gold (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231537420/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7228/7231535548_be35bb559e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231535548/)
IMG_2451 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231535548/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7233/7231533472_407c4572df_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231533472/)
IMG_2465 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231533472/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[HDNitehawk]

The hearts are the winner Denise, very nice

[ddt0725]

The hearts are the winner Denise, very niceThanks! I wasn't sure if I went overboard on that one!

A few more ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7235655552_4b6b15a707_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7235655552/)
Peony (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7235655552/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/7231523394_6c73198249_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231523394/)
IMG_2055 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7231523394/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Had a few minutes late this afternoon to wander the edge of the woods behind the house and look for some macro opportunities

I came up with a few images. although there was a slight breeze frustrating my focusing abilities.

The first one is a butterfly on poison ivy with a texture added to the BG. The next is a flower, obviously, but I do not know the species.

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s10/v18/p393633158-5.jpg

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v23/p584074967-5.jpg

[saslls]

I shot this the other day.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7082/7237788264_6ed28bce7a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/saslls/7237788264/)
May 20, 2012 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/saslls/7237788264/) by saslls (http://www.flickr.com/people/saslls/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Really awesome shots on this page! Joel, you are really good with using the textures using your PS magic! I like the one you chose alot!
@Lisa - Love the bleeding hearts shot! I wish my hearts would have cooperated more and all faced front but it was way to windy!

[Joel Eade]

Some backyard bugs.

Took these hand held with Canon 180mm f/3.5 macro.

(The Lady Bug was on a table cloth on our deck and I think it is deceased)

1079108010811082

[saslls]

Wow Joel! Those are amazing!! The details are stunning! My favorite is the creepy spider!! The colors in the web are too cool and all the hair on it's legs...creepy!! ( in a good kind of way)

[Jayson]

Joel, great looking spider! Is that a baby garden spider? Damsel fly looks pretty cool also!

Captured a damsel myself. I only had natural light on this guy as I had the the 300mm with tc. I had to crop, but turned out ok for my liking.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-cyTdeFxuIUA/T8BJpi764jI/AAAAAAAADcI/ctTtaSLG_N0/s640/2012_05_24_EOS 7D_024347 copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HfsLSWRm1m8/T8BJqn5qMGI/AAAAAAAADcY/31RlttCGNWc/s800/2012_05_24_EOS 7D_024356 copy.jpg

[ddt0725]

Awesome shots, Jayson! Very sharp, nice detail and the lighting is perfect!

[Joel Eade]

Thanks Lisa and Jayson, I appreciate the nice comments.

Jayson, I don't know what kind of spider it is. I am new to the world of macro photography so I am not very knowledgeable about insect and spider identification.

BTW, the Damsel fly was natural light, the other 3 were with a single 430 EXII flash on a Wimberly flash extension bracket.

[Joel Eade]

Image of a rose treated with Pixel Bender and Topaz Adjust filters

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v43/p248151795-5.jpg

[Jayson]

Lovely roses Joel. I am not sure of the technical name, but I thought it looked like a baby garden spider. They grow up to be very large with Yellow stuff on their abdomen. Something like this.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rAJjGSbsYss/TmqM2yWzllI/AAAAAAAAChI/57pI50p6Yzg/s400/2011_08_29_20847.jpghttps://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-s35gIsdsUVk/TmqM4oM7X5I/AAAAAAAAChI/AofH2ipilI8/s400/2011_08_29_20862.jpghttps://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZUn-9NozNMo/TmqNTjwU4PI/AAAAAAAAChI/iAD5M7GhubQ/s400/2011_08_27_20810.jpg

[Jayson]

I finally had a chance to do some macro photography the last couple of days and getting some things processed. Here is a fly from today. This image was natural light since it was cloudy all day. Stacked from 9 photos. I have done it a couple times now, but figured out a better process and it really works well. I used CS5 and moved the files to photoshop as layers via bridge from the tools menu. Then I used auto-align layers from the edit menu to get the fly lined up since not all of the photos were perfectly centered. Next used the auto-blend function from the edit menu and cropped the resulting photo. Worked much easier than my last process. I shoot most of my macro shots handheld and this is going to be my new process as it worked so flawlessly on the three pictures I processed this evening. Each had more than 5, but less than 10, images.

Here is the resulting shot followed by the others.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7m4pBdEcuf0/T8Go-Vdm4LI/AAAAAAAADjw/zIRi2N1YYyU/s800/Baby Fly Stacked copy.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZUFCCzr9ZQ0/T8Go3vwe1lI/AAAAAAAADhA/BP-Fbvkq_Hk/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024434 copy.jpghttps://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HkkdPmOHbAE/T8Go3NUXj1I/AAAAAAAADg4/ZtU2GJrA9Yw/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024435 copy.jpghttps://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-J9nCylZdSng/T8Go3g1NhPI/AAAAAAAADhE/Nis0Lel6FyI/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024436 copy.jpghttps://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XiJnrfANCQ8/T8Go3w7WwII/AAAAAAAADhM/uXqWs5xv4ig/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024437 copy.jpghttps://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WEJlg5ojxkM/T8Go4cb_UvI/AAAAAAAADhk/gfodzGhUxZU/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024438 copy.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MsvX4sEYv7g/T8Go4Zi8taI/AAAAAAAADhY/p1Wqz_8sXYs/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024439 copy.jpghttps://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IyGm7tOgHmY/T8Go4hyHMeI/AAAAAAAADhg/MRPRtKrXEuI/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024440 copy.jpghttps://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EAL15siWVhI/T8Go5DrFH_I/AAAAAAAADhw/0jGb8MOv5IY/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024441 copy.jpghttps://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3BII6tQvfLA/T8Go5YTVleI/AAAAAAAADh4/m244hWLWvzE/s144/2012_05_26_EOS 7D_024442 copy.jpg

[Jayson]

Here are the other two photos I stacked tonight. First one was 9 images and not cropped. Second one was 5.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i53WgTbYQM8/T8Go_B55lwI/AAAAAAAADkA/-IhpOVW75NM/s800/Fly%20Stacked%20copy.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5fFjqXip-ns/T8Go-wxJZrI/AAAAAAAADj4/R2Ldy--zZ_E/s800/FLy%202%20copy.jpg

[ahab1372]

Jayson,
awesome shots. How do you take nine shots fast enough before it moves?

wondering,
Arnt

[Joel Eade]

Jayson,
awesome shots. How do you take nine shots fast enough before it moves?

wondering,
Arnt

That's a good question, also how do you move or adjust the focus point by such small increments hand held?

Will have to try this, the results are impressive!

[bob williams]

That's a good question, also how do you move or adjust the focus point by such small increments hand held?

Will have to try this, the results are impressive!

I'd love to know the answer to these questions as well. Perhaps a short tutorial:D

[Jayson]

Thanks guys. I just noticed the soft spot on the first fly's eye. Maybe I need to review the technique and fix it up a little in CS5.

In terms of focusing and taking the pictures, I usually do it two ways with either fast fps or the slower one. I move in as close as I can without scaring the bug and focus on the eyes. Then I take pictures as I move the camera forward and backward to get the other parts of the bug in focus. These three flys I used the cameras 8fps and just snapped off. They weren't sticking around long yesterday. Spiders and other bugs like dragon flies you can work slower, but flies, the minute you start moving too close they take off. Make sure you just move the camera and do not focus the lens. It will either enlarge or shrink you subject (due to something with the lens...this may be what they call lens breathing???) which can be tough to fix and stack. That's really all I do. The other think that effects the fps is if there is a flash on board. If using flash, you can only do a the slower fps because the flash can't keep up. Hope that helps.

This is the guy I followed my methods after and his tutorial (http://www.wonderfulphotos.com/articles/macro/focus_stacking/). He is an awesome macro photographer and has the MP-E 65mm that I really would love to get for stuff like this. He sums it up much better than I would. Once I figure out how to screen shot on my mac, I will maybe write something up.

[Joel Eade]

Once I figure out how to screen shot on my mac, I will maybe write something up.

That's easy........

http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/screencapturemac/ht/macscreenshot.htm

[Jayson]

That's easy........

http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/screencapturemac/ht/macscreenshot.htm

Thanks Joel. I figured it was easy, but just had not looked it up yet. I will see what I can do regarding a tutorial. Don't know how much help it will be but I'll give it a go.

[ddt0725]

Here are a few shots taken today. It has been really windy here so haven't been able to do much macro shooting in my gardens but today I just couldn't wait any longer! They are not as sharp as I would like but I don't know when I'm going to see a calm day!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/7282904410_3629d4f29b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282904410/)
IMG_3869 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282904410/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/7282897034_27f78aa8dd_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282897034/)
hummingbirds delight (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282897034/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7080/7282893044_70dbd79f61_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282893044/)
IMG_3813 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282893044/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8162/7282889302_c91d78b47e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282889302/)
purple beauty (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7282889302/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Very nice Denise .... putting the new lens to good use, beautiful images!

[Jayson]

Beautiful Denise! Your floral photography is great. It with your PP on the flowers is top notch in my book.

[Jayson]

Here is a spider stacked from 5 photos. I was a little shaky with this baby, so not as clean as it should be. He was really tiny and very skittish.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFmF4Q4Cc-E/T8OfXy7Aa3I/AAAAAAAADlk/KhxSbRsTSVA/s640/Spider%20copy.jpg

[conropl]

A lot of great flowers (Denise - The third one is really cool).

Jayson - The spiders eyes are great.

Here is a wild Iris I found along a pond in the woods.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7298667604_35b321d194_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7298667604/)
Wild Iris - 4752 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7298667604/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Thanks, Pat! Your shot of the Iris is very sharp and the lighting is perfect! These are such beautiful flowers!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7298935500_c57337c2e9_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7298935500/)
Vintage Rose (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7298935500/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

A lot of great flowers (Denise - The third one is really cool).

Jayson - The spiders eyes are great.

Here is a wild Iris I found along a pond in the woods.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7298667604_35b321d194_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7298667604/)
Wild Iris - 4752 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7298667604/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

Thanks Pat. I like how you included background in your iris photo. I think it adds to an already great shot!

[ddt0725]

Jayson, I agree that spider shot is amazing! I have never really done alot of stacking of photos. Maybe I will give a try again soon!

[ddt0725]

Here's another from a couple days ago ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/7299870228_3c414f19a8_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7299870228/)
IMG_3466 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7299870228/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[DanoPhoto]

Hello all. I have been practicing some spider shots with the help of my son the self-proclaimed "spider spotter". I am interested in the stacking process and wanted to know what a recommended software is from the group. There are some really amazing images that have been shared.

These are all single image captures with 180L handheld and MT24EX. I have not done much PP for these other than crops and temperature (all taken in/on/around kids cedar playset).

1124
1125
1126

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mayo_family/

Thanks.Dan.

[ddt0725]

I can't be of any help with the stacking but those are nice spider shots!

I'm not seeing too many bugs so I am still working on some flower shots ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7097/7310115480_c8e2091de2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7310115480/)
IMG_2494 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7310115480/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Here is one bug shot I took the other day. It's not a great shot but can anyone tell me what it is?

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/7276913632_47efd2eb87_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7276913632/)
IMG_3691 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7276913632/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Dave Throgmartin]

This tulip picture was taken with EF-S 60mm f/2.8 macro and 60D. Shot settings are f/13 and 1/200 shutter speed. Lighting is provided by LumoPro LP-160 from above and to the left.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7291484392_6d4680578c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/68255851@N05/7291484392/)
2012_05_28_5476 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/68255851@N05/7291484392/) by dthrog00 (http://www.flickr.com/people/68255851@N05/), on Flickr

[DanoPhoto]

Denise-

Not sure what that is, but I ma sure some of the bug experts will know. Here is my first attempt at a stack (3 shots). I used CombineZM (freeware).

I will definitely keep trying, but it is really cool.

1129

[Joel Eade]

I want to try focus stacking too but have not had the chance. Here is one that I did manage to get in focus with one shot using the 180mm macro hand held

1130

[Jayson]

Sorry it has taken me so long with getting this together. Hopefully some of you will find it useful. Here is a mini tutorial on focus stacking (http://macrobugblog.blogspot.com/). I made it a blog post instead of adding it here so you could see larger scale pictures of just where the focus was in each particular picture. I also decided to make its own bug blog and am really only going to post bugs on that site now. Don't think any perspective clients are going to like me mixing my hobby with there family photos. Now just to figure out how to remove the other stuff and transfer.

[Joel Eade]

Very nice Jayson, Thank you!

[DanoPhoto]

Thanks, Jayson.

Joel, nice capture. The 180 is a fantastic lens, I just need to work on my internal IS.

[conropl]

A lot of really great shots being posted. Here is one with 100mm L.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7077/7320524908_8061737e83_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7320524908/)
Bee -4849 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7320524908/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[conropl]

I did a single shot HDR rendition of the above shot, and it is considerably sharper and more detailed. Here is the single shot HDR version for comparison.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8006/7320777664_383c1fc210_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7320777664/)
HDR Bee (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7320777664/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Very nice single-shot HDR, Pat! Did you do that in DPP or NIK HDR Efex Pro?

[Joel Eade]

Sweet...Honey Bee:) Love the HDR.

[conropl]

Very nice single-shot HDR, Pat! Did you do that in DPP or NIK HDR Efex Pro?

Thank you. I did it with DPP.


Sweet...Honey Bee:) Love the HDR.

"Sweet...Honey Bee" - that is funny;)

I have been trying DPP HDR tool on various pictures. It does not work all that well for multi-shot HDR landscapes (leaves get all messed up because of movement), but the single shot attempts seem to really sharpen up the shot and the detail pops a lot more. I doesn't work for everything, but it does seem to help a lot with bugs and high detailed macros.

[DanoPhoto]

Nice stuff, Pat!

[Kayaker72]

Nice stuff, Pat!
+1....really nice. I like both shots...but in different ways.....

[Jon Ruyle]

Really cool. I love the reflection. Was it on a window?

[conropl]

Really cool. I love the reflection. Was it on a window?

It was on my car wind shield. It was a cold morning, so it was pretty docile and let me slide the lens hood along the window right up close (right to the focus limit of the lens).

[Kombi]

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NmCayz2CE5o/T8vp-27pwdI/AAAAAAAACWI/cThi6RP6Z0M/s800/IMG_7318.JPG

using 24-105 with 25mm extension tube

Captured my first Bee, they sure don't give you much time to get a shot :)

[ddt0725]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7215/7154829785_1220162587_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7154829785/)
The Beauty of Summer (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7154829785/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7102/7155054229_f12e8ddb8e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7155054229/)
Asiatic Lily (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7155054229/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7337003560_13f4273e18_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7337003560/)
IMG_4809_1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7337003560/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

More awesome flowers Denise,,,,keep 'em coming!

[conropl]

More awesome flowers Denise,,,,keep 'em coming!

I second that!

[ddt0725]

I second that!


More awesome flowers Denise,,,,keep 'em coming!

Thanks guys!

Ask and you shall receive ...LOL!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7235/7343767684_ba28d24e03_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7343767684/)
Lily (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7343767684/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Steve U]

Brilliant composition and colours Denise.

[Joel Eade]

1D MKIV
Canon 180mm macro
ambient light plus a small gold reflector
hand held
ISO 1600
f/11
1/100

This is a full frame (uncropped) image, processed with CS5 and Nik Color Efex Pro

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v43/p469533580-5.jpg

[ddt0725]

That is truly a beautiful image, Joel! I love it!

[jrw]

Denise-

Here is my first attempt at a stack (3 shots). I used CombineZM (freeware).




See that you list a 5D2. have you looked at Magic Lantern? Focus stacking is one of many features included.

[Joel Eade]

That is truly a beautiful image, Joel! I love it!

Thank you so much ... not quite up there with your florals but I am trying!

[DanoPhoto]

@JRW - will look into that. have not used Magic Lantern before.

[Joel Eade]

This is a Lily processed with Nik Silver Efex Pro to create a B&W

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v45/p529680181-5.jpg

[Jon Ruyle]

Cool, Joel. I like it.

[Jayson]

Joel, before I had seen the whole picture I thought that was a b&w of someone's hand. Great detail in that shot and I really like the black and white!

[ddt0725]

Awesome processing, Joel!

I'm beginning to wonder if it is ever going to be a calm enough day to take decent macro shots outdoors!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/7354136668_9bd4ff6476_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7354136668/)
IMG_5471 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7354136668/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Awesome processing, Joel!

I'm beginning to wonder if it is ever going to be a calm enough day to take decent macro shots outdoors!


IMG_5471 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7354136668/) by Denise Trocio ( (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/)www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

Thanks Denise ... agree with you on the wind .... I took that last one a couple days ago right before dark, it had calmed down nicely.

[conropl]

Joel, before I had seen the whole picture I thought that was a b&w of someone's hand.

Me too.

Cool processing.

[Joel Eade]

Thanks Pat!

[Jayson]

Haven't done much beside photograph the little dudes for the last week due to the family vacation, but did snag a couple flowers while one was a sleep and the others were waiting in line.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eiim_t_M4kU/T9IgAYuHhzI/AAAAAAAAEBo/t2y32dgASiQ/s1600/Worlds_Of_Fun_20120605_110+copy.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-as8tGWUPq84/T9IgBVQwBJI/AAAAAAAAEBw/hYhehzNsFrI/s1600/Worlds_Of_Fun_20120606_113+copy.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vetw2LtHID4/T9IgCNn04SI/AAAAAAAAEB4/mnBBH2BmtTQ/s1600/Worlds_Of_Fun_20120606_1135.jpg

All shot with a point and shoot. Next time I am bringing the big guy.

[Jayson]

Some natural light stuff...

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-anqFhzfOwLM/T9i1OkePCMI/AAAAAAAAEFM/S13xBK8faHg/s800/20120612_IMG_XTi_020298 copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UQyFrh30sdI/T9i1OW5vjhI/AAAAAAAAEFE/-revOE7zRf0/s800/20120612_IMG_XTi_020295 copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jVNH_O0K91w/T9i1O9nFigI/AAAAAAAAEFc/BZeBu1U-av0/s800/20120612_IMG_XTi_020302 copy.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XyQjB1bE6dY/T9i1PMro6ZI/AAAAAAAAEFo/eNQGOxMUeck/s800/20120612_IMG_XTi_020320 copy.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7HcCZGj8GMI/T9i1PW8sbpI/AAAAAAAAEFw/u244XZMn3IQ/s640/20120612_IMG_XTi_020330 copy.jpg

[Joel Eade]

1DMKIV
Canon 180mm macro + 1.4TC
Hand held, ambient light

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s2/v51/p7529871-5.jpg

[thekingb]

1DMKIV
Canon 180mm macro + 1.4TC
Hand held, ambient light

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s2/v51/p7529871-5.jpg

Awesome, Joel. What f stop did you use? You managed to keep a lot of the damselfly in focus!

[Joel Eade]

Awesome, Joel. What f stop did you use? You managed to keep a lot of the damselfly in focus!

Thanks, here is the exif data

focal length 252mm
ISO 800
1/1600
f/5.0

Not a very high f ratio ... must have been lucky that the whole insect lined up just right!

[Richard Lane]

@Jason, Great set, I especially love the 2nd one!


@Joel: Cool shot Joel! I love that detail over the creamy background, and the color saturation looks spot on!

Awesome shot!

Rich

[thekingb]

Thanks, here is the exif data

focal length 252mm
ISO 800
1/1600
f/5.0

Not a very high f ratio ... must have been lucky that the whole insect lined up just right!

That's awesome, especially for f/5 and a TC!

[cowmao]

New spider in the basement window, but not as colorful as last year. It was a good chance to compare a macro lens with extension tubes. Summing up, the macro lens gives more magnification but seems softer. The extension tube (Canon EF 25mm + 70-200 f/2.8L IS II) doesn't magnify as much but seems slightly sharper -- it's a pain to use though. With the narrow field of focus, it felt like I was focusing with the zoom ring.

All shots are handheld, but I had the front of the lens touching the window.

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-Tk8sshd/0/XL/IMG2477DPP-XL.jpg
50D 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-qdRGjp6/0/XL/IMG2473DPP-XL.jpg
50D 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II + EF 25mm tube

After all the fiddling with the flash, I prefer the ambient light shot I got earlier with the macro lens.
http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-B23WKPJ/0/L/IMG2367DPP-L.jpg

[cowmao]

Juvenile toad from today. I spotted it while mowing the lawn... almost mowed him over.

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-mrpWS9W/0/L/IMG2615DPP-L.jpg
50D 100mm f2.8L IS Macro

[Joel Eade]

Cool lookin' spider!!

[ddt0725]

The first shot of the spider is my fav ...really cool shot!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7213/7383992162_ca8ddfe2dd_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7383992162/)
Amber Carpet Rose (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7383992162/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7383990266_a5668f3109_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7383990266/)
Carpet Rose and visitor (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7383990266/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

I don't know how much longer I will be using flickr for public viewing. I tracked one of my other macro shots that was taken (stolen) off of flickr to a very disturbing blog on tumblr and I'm pretty upset about it! The person didn't even post the photo as being mine but for that user, I'm glad my name wasn't on it!

[Joel Eade]

I don't know how much longer I will be using flickr for public viewing. I tracked one of my other macro shots that was taken (stolen) off of flickr to a very disturbing blog on tumblr and I'm pretty upset about it! The person didn't even post the photo as being mine but for that user, I'm glad my name wasn't on it!

I don't think Flickr is the only site that is vulnerable to image theft ....it's a serious problem that I read about on other forums frequently. I have seen situations where the image user has gone so far as to have an attorney send a letter to the offender requesting the image be taken down immediately. You could send such a letter yourself or an email. Let them know you are aware they have stolen from you.

If you are working toward eventually producing and selling images professionally you might want to consider putting a watermark on them. I don't know if Flickr has that ability or not but Zenfolio does.

[Jayson]

I don't know how much longer I will be using flickr for public viewing. I tracked one of my other macro shots that was taken (stolen) off of flickr to a very disturbing blog on tumblr and I'm pretty upset about it! The person didn't even post the photo as being mine but for that user, I'm glad my name wasn't on it!

Joel is right with the watermark thing. Never post anything to those sites without a watermark or your just asking for someone to take your photos. Especially if that photo is as good as the stuff your producing. :) People will complain that they can't see your photo when your watermark is as big as Joel's, but I would rather be safe than sorry. I really have considered making mine much bigger, but am lazy at the moment. I thought you had a zenfolio account or was I mistaken???

[bob williams]

Awesome, Joel.

Ditto---+3

[Kayaker72]

+4 on Joel's photo

Lovely colors Denise

BTW. How do you track you photos on the web?

[ddt0725]

+4 on Joel's photo

Lovely colors Denise

BTW. How do you track you photos on the web?Thanks! You can view your stats on flickr, from there you can see what sites people viewed your photos from.

[ddt0725]

Joel is right with the watermark thing. Never post anything to those sites without a watermark or your just asking for someone to take your photos. Especially if that photo is as good as the stuff your producing. :) People will complain that they can't see your photo when your watermark is as big as Joel's, but I would rather be safe than sorry. I really have considered making mine much bigger, but am lazy at the moment. I thought you had a zenfolio account or was I mistaken??? I do have a zenfolio site but I don't know how to load them from there to here so I use flickr for that plus I have met and learned a great deal from members on flickr. I will look into adding a watermark to future posts on there. I have since added a statement under my photos that they should not be posted to any websites, blogs etc. without my persmission. Funny thing, I saw one on a blog last night ...along with the statement!

[jrw]

Just a thought. Your work is exceptional Denise. Have you considered using an online hosting site that offers better security and sales potential?

[ddt0725]

Just a thought. Your work is exceptional Denise. Have you considered using an online hosting site that offers better security and sales potential? I believe zenfolio is pretty secure, I'm not sure about the sales potential of it or which ones are better. I think zenfolio works well for others.

[ahab1372]

JRW,
What would that additional security be? I think as soon as something can be viewed on a website, it can be stolen. That's why I think watermarks are the best solution.
There are some websites that embed everything in flash, but that has its downsides too

Arnt

[Joel Eade]

I do have a zenfolio site but I don't know how to load them from there to here so I use flickr for that plus I have met and learned a great deal from members on flickr. I will look into adding a watermark to future posts on there. I have since added a statement under my photos that they should not be posted to any websites, blogs etc. without my persmission. Funny thing, I saw one on a blog last night ...along with the statement!

Denise,

on Zenfolio you can select an image then click on "share"...this opens a window with several different options as to what size image you want

Right click on the URL that want to use and select "copy"

Now in TDP when you go to insert an image use the from URL tab and "paste" the URL into the window (uncheck the little box beneath)

Hit OK and you're done!

[Joel Eade]

I believe zenfolio is pretty secure, I'm not sure about the sales potential of it or which ones are better. I think zenfolio works well for others.

I think sales are mostly independent of whatever hosting site you choose....the marketing and sales generation is mostly up to you. They give you tons of help, suggestions, tutorials etc etc....but they do not market your product. You want your site to look good, be user friendly and be associated with a pro printing operation, the rest is up to you:)

[ddt0725]

Denise,

on Zenfolio you can select an image then click on "share"...this opens a window with several different options as to what size image you want

Right click on the URL that want to use and select "copy"

Now in TDP when you go to insert an image use the from URL tab and "paste" the URL into the window (uncheck the little box beneath)

Hit OK and you're done!

Thank you, Joel! I will try it with my next upload. In the meantime, maybe this will help with flickr files ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7071/7394904924_701fc03033_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7394904924/)
New logo for flickr files (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7394904924/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[ahab1372]

Good idea Denise.
At least it will get your name out there if someone links to your pictures.
And nice shot, I like the colors!

Arnt

[ddt0725]

Thanks, Arnt!

[ddt0725]

http://dtrociophotography.com/img/s2/v50/p471749899-3.jpg

It worked, Joel! :o I also exported this into flickr which was really easy also but took pretty long for it to fly! Looks like I will use zenfolio as my first stop. I don't know if I prefer the logo in the middle or in the corner though.

[ahab1372]

if it is too small and in the corner, people might just crop it off. So either bigger, or in the center

[Joel Eade]

It worked, Joel! :o I also exported this into flickr which was really easy also but took pretty long for it to fly! Looks like I will use zenfolio as my first stop. I don't know if I prefer the logo in the middle or in the corner though.

Good deal.

Logo in the middle is safer in terms of suppressing image theft I would guess. You want to make it difficult to remove with photoshop to the point it would take so much time that a lazy good-for-nothin' image thief is not interested:)

There are several options. You can reduce the opacity a little to make your image easier to see. Also you can selectively, on each individual image, remove it and then re-apply it later if you want to post an image here (from Zenfolio) for a short time without a watermark.

[Joel Eade]

Denise,

I have been doing a little research about protecting images and I found this http://www.digimarc.com/digimarc-for-images

It looks to me that this would be a great solution and I am considering it for myself.

[ddt0725]

Denise,

I have been doing a little research about protecting images and I found this http://www.digimarc.com/digimarc-for-images

It looks to me that this would be a great solution and I am considering it for myself. Thanks for providing the information, Joel! I don't have the $ to spend on it right now but maybe in the future. If you go with it, please let us know how it works out for you! The more I have looked, the more I have found my photos online on websites, blogs, etc. So far, I have gotten a few people to remove them but the one with the absolutely disgusting blog, I have no way of contacting.

[Sheiky]

Denise, is it perhaps an idea to open a new thread for this? I'm interested how you found out your photos where somewhere else and what you can do about it, but I don't want to get off topic(macro) here too much.

[Jayson]

Denise, is it perhaps an idea to open a new thread for this? I'm interested how you found out your photos where somewhere else and what you can do about it, but I don't want to get off topic(macro) here too much.

I agree with Jan, I would like to know also.

[Joel Eade]

Good idea ... I started a thread in "Open Talk"

[Joel Eade]

Back on topic .... this is a flower (don't know what kind) taken with 1DMKIV + Canon 180mm macro, handheld, ambient light

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s2/v51/p750802045-5.jpg

[conropl]

Joel:

You are making me want to get a 180mm macro.

[ddt0725]

Joel:

You are making me want to get a 180mm macro.+1!

[Joel Eade]

Thanks Pat and Denise :)

[Jayson]

Joel that is lovely composition on the flower. Beautiful!

[Jayson]

My baby grasshopper is growing. Here is a silhouette of the little guy.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mxto9O489KQ/T-JdZJ07tAI/AAAAAAAAElQ/7_iNT2h-3D4/s720/2012_06_19_EOS+7D_025130+copy.jpg

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8159/7419738614_8c6c364be7_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7419738614/)
A Perfect Rose (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7419738614/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7419741096_4e6195c857_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7419741096/)
Beauty of Summer (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7419741096/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[HDNitehawk]

I have a stacked view of this spider. But I thought this crop was interesting, just a solo pic with thin DOF and all.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8011/7423323386_e267d9f0e2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7423323386/)
Spider (1 of 1) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7423323386/) by hdnitehawk01 (http://www.flickr.com/people/55888666@N08/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

I have a stacked view of this spider. But I thought this crop was interesting, just a solo pic with thin DOF and all.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8011/7423323386_e267d9f0e2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7423323386/)
Spider (1 of 1) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55888666@N08/7423323386/) by hdnitehawk01 (http://www.flickr.com/people/55888666@N08/), on Flickr

Love the eyes! I believe that is your common yellow garden spider. Nice how you have captured the zigzag webbing with the shot also. I might boost either the saturation or vibrance to get the yellow to come out a little brighter.

[Jayson]

I captured a little baby jumper today. Stacked from 6 images.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Yjs4-SKrgpo/T-VBnm54VzI/AAAAAAAAEmY/bTXTklkKKvs/s800/20120622_IMG_XTi_020486%20copy.jpg

And trying to get away.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ua7Q-WCT5yQ/T-VBor9gqWI/AAAAAAAAEmg/m-rFTf0ZNw8/s640/20120622_IMG_XTi_020494%20copy.jpg

[Jayson]

Here is my first bloom of the year. Yeah I know a little slow, but I have to plant my own flowers. I took this with the 85mm with a 20mm tube at f/1.8. I was going for a razor thing DOF and did alright. Sure wish I had the 85mm f/1.2.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6uproTZglMI/T-VBpf41EnI/AAAAAAAAEmw/1o5gCnCG8lA/s800/2012_06_22_EOS%207D_025163%20copy.jpg

[Joel Eade]

Nice shots Jayson. The large spider is really spooky looking.

[Joel Eade]

A Lily in our front yard

1D MKIII
180mm macro on a tripod, manual focus
ISO 200
f/7.1
1/400

Took this in ambient light and shot it as a straight small jpeg in camera, processed with DPP. Was trying to expedite the workflow because my wife wanted some small images to email. I usually shoot RAW and use CS5 but this image is pretty sweet with minimal work:)

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s2/v50/p680048656-5.jpg

[Jayson]

Thanks Joel. Someday I will get flash on those little guys. I was surprised how well the noise cleaned up. I shot that at ISO 800 with an XTi. I still like the IQ that comes from that old little camera. Makes you think also because you have to set the ISO manually. Auto ISO really took the challenge out of some things.

I really like your lilly shot Joel. Did you use a black piece of paper for the background on that?

[Joel Eade]

I really like your lilly shot Joel. Did you use a black piece of paper for the background on that?

No, it was bright sunshine so I stopped down enough to no clip the bright colors and the BG became very dark as a result.

[Kombi]

couple from today 24-105L with 25mm extension tube
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y0d9GS95eBo/T-qAoqX84LI/AAAAAAAACq4/1IvGPrrLS6g/s800/IMG_8207-001.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-064DXYNMCwM/T-qAx3JOoQI/AAAAAAAACqw/DcYb3tIJllo/s800/IMG_8217-001.jpg

[Kombi]

Rented a Canon 100L Macro for the long weekend . Was pretty excited to try it, took about 300 pictures while walking around the park and my backyard.

But when I reviewed them on the computer, I really didn't get much share worthy.
Most were OOF or at least part of what I thought I captured was.

Any tips or preferred setting people like to set up with there 100L?

couple that I think are share worthy
I would have liked more of the center of the pedal in focus in image below, would stepping this back to f/4 have given me that?
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PPKTWNpA3lY/T-6ry9_tjvI/AAAAAAAACvY/mFmWVIfcVTI/s800/IMG_8399.jpg
Canon EOS REBEL T2i
ISO: 125
Exposure: 1/2000 sec
Aperture: 2.8
Focal Length: 100mm

Captured pretty much what I wanted here, of course would have been nicer if it was 1-2 days ago when bloom was fresher :)
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lpNPhcXuIl8/T-6n1XHnOXI/AAAAAAAACvg/_HqMYrVqfWQ/s800/IMG_8455.jpg
Canon EOS REBEL T2i
ISO: 2000
Exposure: 1/2000 sec
Aperture: 2.8
Focal Length: 100mm

[andnowimbroke]

With the macro lens set at 2.8, you won't have a lot in focus, and without being able to adjust the lens to the body with AFMA found in more expensive models, you will be lucky to get the part you want sharp. A tripod and manual focus with the live view screen is pretty common. If you need to shoot at a wide open aperture, you can stack photos together in Photoshop where you shifted the focus a little with each shot. The program takes the sharpest part of each photo and merges it into a single picture. There should be a thread or two with shots and descriptions. Sorry you had so much trouble the first time out. Don't give up on the lens though. It's a great tools.

[ddt0725]

@Kombi - I really like both shots, the bottom one is my favorite! I have yet to try photo stacking but have seen some fantastic results with using that method. If you give it a try, I would love to see the results!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7137/7470563506_2f14c23ae7_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7470563506/)
Thistle (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18085870@N07/7470563506/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/18085870@N07/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

[QUOTE=Kombi;71718]
But when I reviewed them on the computer, I really didn't get much share worthy.
Most were OOF or at least part of what I thought I captured was.

Any tips or preferred setting people like to set up with there 100L?[QUOTE]

I am new to macro as well ... one thing I have found is, once you have the shot framed the way you want it, achieve final focus by moving the camera in and out rather than moving the focus ring. I like to move in and snap the shutter when I see the critical part of the image in focus. As already suggested, use as high an f ratio as possible because depth of field is very thin.

[Joel Eade]

Elm Leaf
1DMKIV + 180mm Macro

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v45/p987656334-5.jpg

[Steph]

Bees in a Lavander field shot during a recent trip in southern France.

7D with 70-200mm 2.8 L IS II + 500D @ 200mm (so not really macro)
1/100 sec, f/8, ISO 800.

1193
1194

Cheers,
S.

[conropl]

Kombi:

At 1/2000 sec exposure time, you have room to bring that down and close your apeture to give more DOF. With a flash you can close your apeture even more for more DOF.

Also, with hand holding, the macro DOF tends to be so narrow that if you prefocus and delay taking the shot (or focus and recompose), then you are not likely be able to hold your focal plane where you intended. Any sway in your body or head will be moving the focus forward/back of your focal point. Macro is really made for tripods, but if you hand hold, then push the shutter button all the way down so the shot is taken as soon as focus is achieved - this reduces the chance that your body movement will move your focus point.

What I have found most effective is as "andnowimbroke" stated. Use live view on a tripod, blow it up 10x and AF or manually focus, then use a remote shutter release. I had to put in a +16 AFMA on my lens to get it to focus properly... so if your AF is not focusing where you think it should, then manually focus.

[Dave Johnston]

Just pulled the trigger on a non-L 100mm Macro.

Been missing out on this side of photography since I purchased my 5d3. Can't wait, and just in time for my road trip from SC to Acadia National Park in Maine!

I'll throw some shots on here when I get back.

Dave.

[Kombi]

What I want to do and what I need to do are often in conflict. Didn't get to play this morn but while mowing the lawn this guy stopped me.
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wfn0Glz6iDM/T-9RidahuKI/AAAAAAAACwI/Z-NwbvNKWtc/s800/IMG_8603-001.jpg
ISO: 1600
Exposure: 1/80 sec
Aperture: 20.0
Focal Length: 100mm

He was kind enough to wait for me to literally run into the house and grab the camera.
so got a few of him
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dC5VJfAdJyI/T-9Q4WfKMJI/AAAAAAAACvo/GkgscH0RAUw/s800/IMG_8601-001.jpg
ISO: 320
Exposure: 1/80 sec
Aperture: 8.0
Focal Length: 100mm
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Dcgi8EC4aqU/T-9RLv3IINI/AAAAAAAACvw/TyeL762swPk/s800/IMG_8612.jpg
ISO: 1600
Exposure: 1/1000 sec
Aperture: 2.8
Focal Length: 100mm

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SBPHVWDXPgk/T-9R9ScRQWI/AAAAAAAACwM/_KUY23HaUWU/s800/IMG_8638.jpg
ISO: 640
Exposure: 1/80 sec
Aperture: 4.5
Focal Length: 100mm

Was also content to just do whatever he was doing to that dandelion while I got closer and closer
hand held, no flash, images not cropped or modified (third image has some mild colour boost)

Edit:
Thanks for the feedback so far- I will implement as much as I can.
My tripod is a bit cumbersome but will take it to the park later.
I do not have an external flash or remote trigger YET, just the pop up.
I do have a small mirror around, maybe I can play with that and redirect some light .
Denise- I too have seen the fantastic stacked images in this thread, however I am uncertain I have that ability.
I have Lightroom 4.1, Photoshop Elements 8 , and DPP...
I have full CS 1.3 from '04 on old computer that with effort I could see if it has it.

[conropl]

...My tripod is a bit cumbersome but will take it to the park later.


It was nice of the bee to pose for you:p. Nice shots.

If you are going to take your tripod out - and you have a center column - don't forget that you can flip the column around and hange the camera upside down under the tripod (at least most allow you to). This will let you get real low and right on top of things.

Have fun!

[Busted Knuckles]

1203

Green bee, white oleander, hand held 70-200 25mm ext tube zoomed to 190mm. 640/f7.1 200% crop or there abouts. JPG'd down to who knows what.

Who would have thought bees would have taught me the value of a 1dx fps and auto focus needs. These guys were moving, I tried manual & auto focus, single shot and burst. My wife was LHAO watching me and listening to my narrative.

Mike

[thekingb]

1203

Who would have thought bees would have taught me the value of a 1dx fps and auto focus needs. These guys were moving, I tried manual & auto focus, single shot and burst. My wife was LHAO watching me and listening to my narrative.

Mike

So true. I've let fly plenty of choice words while stalking a bee. It's our own special kind of insanity!

[conropl]

Not the best shot here... I was only able to get one shot off before the moth flew off (without the spider). So I did not get the framing right or the DOF, but I thought it was still interesting to get a shot of a colorful moth with an ambitious spider.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7479978206_8b917bfe25_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7479978206/)
Spider Riding Moth-5319 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7479978206/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[Joel Eade]

Nice ... a "piggy back" spider. Too bad he didn't hang on for the flight :)

[Joel Eade]

Unopened Morning Glory
1DMKIV
180mm macro, ambient light only
Hand held
ISO 1600
f/6.3
1/50

http://joeleadephotography.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v40/p1027828091-5.jpg

[conropl]

Nice ... a "piggy back" spider. Too bad he didn't hang on for the flight :)

Thanks Joel.

I like the simple beauty of the Unopened Morning Glory.

[Steph]

Raspberry time!

http://photos.deghaye.com/Macro/Vetegal/i-MpXPQsG/0/L/2011-09-3091-L.jpg (http://photos.deghaye.com/Macro/Vetegal/16380441_LnK23h#!i=1532893015&k=MpXPQsG&lb=1&s=A)

7D, EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro, 1/60, f/4, ISO 100 + a bit of 430 EX II, subject distance 33cm.

Cheers,
S.

[Kombi]

A couple more with the rented 100L
Went to the local conservatory and got some pictures of some non indigenous flowers. No idea what these are called
Handheld ambient light, 3 shots combined using DPP HDR tool natural setting.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AFLCRXBNWBc/T_MEzFXtnWI/AAAAAAAAC24/sa-EjpEwjwQ/s800/hdrBloom1.JPG
ISO: 200
Exposure: 1/2000
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 100

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T4tbhNH-uvA/T_MFoBL2NzI/AAAAAAAAC3A/8zymQiozhVk/s800/hdrBloom3.JPG
ISO: 200
Exposure: 1/400
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 100

[Jayson]

Great stuff on this page. Great work catching that Spider Pat. I had a moment like that last year, but didn't have the proper equipment to get a good shot.

Joel, Steph, and Kombi, very nice captures.

I have been working on capturing still life after watching a little training last weekend. These were quick set-up and shoots and I am going to try a little more to control the lighting in the next round. Just notice my clock is a little tilted.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUtEKGfdO2c/T_NB4YMpMCI/AAAAAAAAEqA/3jD_8YDsFas/s1600/2012_07_03_EOS+7D_025461+copy.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5f04zjyNNHU/T_NB45p3FrI/AAAAAAAAEqI/7UK2mbZLraU/s1600/2012_07_03_EOS+7D_025471+copy.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ACHPOppoIxk/T_NB3tjjmvI/AAAAAAAAEp4/7_MZGZMBOWw/s1600/2012_07_03_EOS+7D_025449+copy.jpg

All are basically the same set-up. Main umbrella at about 1 o'clock directly above the subject and fill cards all around. I believe next time I am going to use my Apollo, light tent and some other fill cards that I am making. I believe that will make a big difference in reflections and general lighting of the subject.

[cowmao]

Green tree frog. It was sticking to the slider door of our condo in Williamsburg, VA. (They're loud too.)

I know I'm dating myself, but doesn't it look like those Peace Frog t-shirts?

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-p3KtCmr/0/XL/IMG3583DPP-XL.jpg

[ddt0725]

Absolutely love the frog shot!!! Fantastic!! I'm too young to remember peace frogs but it does look like pictures of them that I have seen ...LOL!! You should put a psychedelic overlay on it in post!

[cowmao]

Absolutely love the frog shot!!!

Thanks. Here's the other good one. Looks like he's smiling.

http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-4wdbnHx/0/L/img3576dpp-L.jpg

And, here's one from today. Mr. Toad (American Toad?) makes an appearance. I thought he lived under the deck, but it looks like he just finds his dinner there. I saw him eat a spider, and he was trying to eat an earthworm.
http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-RkjCbcH/0/L/IMG5296DPPc-L.jpg

Similar story for Mr Turtle (Eastern Box Turtle?). We might seen them once a year.
http://www.jimslamepics.com/Website/TDP/i-KBVxnBL/0/XL/img1340dpp-XL.jpg

[conropl]

Thanks. Here's the other good one. Looks like he's smiling.



That Frog does looklike he is smiling.:) Nice shots.

I like the toad. Here is one of my favorite toads:

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6138/5922799442_bd95994603_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/5922799442/)
Toad (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/5922799442/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[conropl]

Here is a simple weed. Why is it we call some flowers or wild flowers, and others are just weeds? They all have there own beauty.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7526399130_feb56b8603_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7526399130/)
Weeds - They are Part of Natures Beauty -5495 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7526399130/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[Busted Knuckles]

Pat - looks like Queen Anne's Lace. Basically a wild carrot. I agree some of the coolest looking flowers are indeed the wild ones.

[thekingb]

Begonia up close with one of the "artistic" filters on the iPad version of iPhoto. The iPad/iPhoto combo is not yet a full replacement for aperture/iMac, but it gets better and better and easier and easier to manage the photo workflow away from home.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8141/7526914378_997145e579_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bk3132/7526914378/)
photo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bk3132/7526914378/) by thekingb (http://www.flickr.com/people/bk3132/), on Flickr

[conropl]

Pat - looks like Queen Anne's Lace. Basically a wild carrot. I agree some of the coolest looking flowers are indeed the wild ones.

It is Queen Anne's Lace (that much I knew), but I did not know it was a wild carrot. So... is the root edible? Thank you for the enlightenment. This what I like about posting here... people always are willing to educate, and i enjoy benifitting from it.


thekingb - Beautiful shot.

Pat

[Busted Knuckles]

The root is edible - it is best for stews and flavors, vs calories.

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7568778948_fe2b803eee_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7568778948/)
Don't let life bite you in the butt! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7568778948/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[clemmb]

Cool!
Did it sting the moth?

[ddt0725]

Cool!
Did it sting the moth?After numerous attempts, I believe he did get him on this one!

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7569091072_bfb213526b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/)
Gladiolus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[thekingb]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7569091072_bfb213526b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/)
Gladiolus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

Wow! What color!

[Jayson]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7569091072_bfb213526b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/)
Gladiolus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/) by Denise Trocio ( (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/)www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.dtrociophotography.com)), on Flickr

Denise, this is beautiful! Lovely colors

[Jayson]

Haven't been shooting a lot recently, but did catch this guy out the window. I wasn't about to try and get any closer...

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cltnrzvEUAE/T_x6eDjiK3I/AAAAAAAAErs/MJQuKdDFkcE/w460-h306-n-k/2012_07_10_EOS%2B7D_025772%2Bcopy.jpg

Taken with the 300mm f/4 IS and 1.4tc out the front window.

[conropl]

Deinise:

I have been gone for a while and just got a chance to see your last couple of posts here... Wow!!!!

The bee and moth is a great catch, and the flowers are beautiful.

[saslls]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7569091072_bfb213526b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/)
Gladiolus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7569091072/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

Absolutely beautiful!!!

[ddt0725]

Thank you! Only a slight wind this morning so I was able to get a few macro shots in before the wind picked up. Here's afew more from this morning ...

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7571205644_c83208b8bc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7571205644/)
IMG_1149_WM (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7571205644/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8145/7570060132_07b85f4e3b_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7570060132/)
Gladiolus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7570060132/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7577045408_97957581e6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7577045408/)
Hummingbird Clearwing Moth (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7577045408/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8294/7626157446_b1240fb7e1_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7626157446/)
Cucumber Flower (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7626157446/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8019/7619424350_423003b25e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7619424350/)
IMG_2255 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7619424350/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8283/7644655212_4d63b0da0f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7644655212/)
Female Praying Mantis (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7644655212/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8146/7644654924_34b70fa3f2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7644654924/)
Male Praying Mantis (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7644654924/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

Great shots of that Mantis Denise!!! That first one is awesome! I am very jealous of these since I have been chasing a great photo of a mantis for 2 years. They don't frequent the places I visit.

[ddt0725]

Thanks, Jayson! I have never seen one before today other than in photos so I was pretty excited! I took plenty of shots but I still have to go through them. You can count on seeing more though real soon!! Now, if I could just get a nice shot of a dragonfly!

[M_Six]

Awesome shots, Denise. I keep resisting the urge to buy a macro lens. Maybe I shouldn't. Looks like fun.

[ddt0725]

Awesome shots, Denise. I keep resisting the urge to buy a macro lens. Maybe I shouldn't. Looks like fun.Thanks!! I think I would part with my long lens before I would do without having a macro lens at all! I miss my Canon 100mm IS L lens but this one seems to get the job done ok! I used Kenko extension tubes on these two shots also!

[ddt0725]

Another praying mantis shot, like I said I took a quite a few while I had the chance!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/7647288894_ba8fa42f3d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7647288894/)
Female Praying Mantis (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7647288894/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

and a huge bumblebee ...
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8285/7647288630_a787d5bbdc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7647288630/)
Mutant Bumblebee (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7647288630/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[thekingb]

[QUOTE=ddt0725;73068]Another praying mantis shot, like I said I took a quite a few while I had the chance!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/7647288894_ba8fa42f3d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7647288894/)

Awesome Denise! Love the pose.

[Jayson]

Denise, that last mantis shot is awesome!

I found a little spider on spider action yesterday. I only had my XTi handy at the time with no flash so not as good as I had hoped, but cool none the less.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3f_mQDdNDiM/UBK-UbpWb8I/AAAAAAAAE4Y/ggcgBpUNrMg/s1600/20120726_IMG_XTi_020697+copy.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzpPxY1LAME/UBK-TZ7QNTI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/Xlvzz9Cjfps/s1600/20120726_IMG_XTi_020658+copy.jpg

[Busted Knuckles]

Denise,

IMG_2255

After looking at all the insects scrolling down, the snapdragon (?) looks almost violent. (as well as violet) :)

Cool shot.

[Jayson]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GdVzXrW1kLo/UBS1X6lEcnI/AAAAAAAAE7I/V-kILFvG51c/s1600/2012_07_28_EOS+7D_026532+copy.jpg
and focus stacked
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MeGlcJ9LNCs/UBS1Ya3yiFI/AAAAAAAAE7Q/dIp8dM2UXhE/s1600/2012_07_28_EOS+7D_026570+copy.jpg

[conropl]

Finally got a chance to go out shooting... so I got a little carried away here.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8282/7707769594_5019a6bf2d_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707769594/)
Wild Flowers-6698 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707769594/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7270/7707747414_0ce1b83bf9_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707747414/)
Catetpillar-6719 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707747414/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7263/7707723618_673ac89c80_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707723618/)
Bug-2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707723618/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7136/7707661792_aa921fc2e9_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707661792/)
Macro-6745 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7707661792/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Wonderful shots, Pat! Everything from the sharpness and detail to the exposure ...really well done!

Well, I just received the Sigma 150mm OS macro yesterday and have been trying to decide whether I should keep it and sell my brand new Sigma 105mm OS macro. Both have there advantages and disadvantages. I have been extremely pleased with the 105mm but the added reach is also nice to have. I don't think the 150mm focuses as fast and accurate as the 105mm though. More testing to do but I need to make a decision today!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8285/7711818596_724325a6ae_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711818596/)
Sigma AF 150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO Macro OS (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711818596/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8426/7711822744_75d5171663_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711822744/)
Sigma AF 150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO Macro OS (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711822744/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8430/7711825706_7fe2acbf51_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711825706/)
Sigma AF 150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO Macro OS (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711825706/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8291/7711828088_68021dba86_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711828088/)
Sigma AF 150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO Macro OS (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711828088/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7125/7711834730_0aff8592de_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711834730/)
Sigma AF 150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO Macro OS (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7711834730/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

Denise, the photos look great. Have you tried the 150mm with an extender yet. I have read that using it with a 1.4x TC is a killer combo.

[conropl]

This thread is full of a bunch of great shots. The sharpness of everyones shots is amazing. I need to try focus stacking some day... Jayson, your stuff is really cool.

Denise - The 150mm looks great. The shots were right on, and the color looks good (I really like the first one). You mention that the focus is a little slow. Do you typically use auto-focus? I find myself manually focusing most of the time for macro work. I am not saying my stuff is great, but manually focusing seems to give me sharper shots than auto-focus. If you find yourself manually focusing a lot, then maybe the slow focus is not an issue. Personally, I would like extra focal length, but it would make hand holding much more difficult (which I do not do to often). I am sure your shots will be outstanding no mater which way you go.

[ddt0725]

Denise, the photos look great. Have you tried the 150mm with an extender yet. I have read that using it with a 1.4x TC is a killer combo.Thanks! I am going to try it out with an extender tomorrow. It's been so darn hot that I have only been going out for very short spurts to shoot in the backyard. Tomorrow is suppose to be much more pleasant!

[ddt0725]

This thread is full of a bunch of great shots. The sharpness of everyones shots is amazing. I need to try focus stacking some day... Jayson, your stuff is really cool.

Denise - The 150mm looks great. The shots were right on, and the color looks good (I really like the first one). You mention that the focus is a little slow. Do you typically use auto-focus? I find myself manually focusing most of the time for macro work. I am not saying my stuff is great, but manually focusing seems to give me sharper shots than auto-focus. If you find yourself manually focusing a lot, then maybe the slow focus is not an issue. Personally, I would like extra focal length, but it would make hand holding much more difficult (which I do not do to often). I am sure your shots will be outstanding no mater which way you go.Thank you, Pat! I tend to do macro shots all wrong ...handheld and auto-focusing. I need to change my ways! I did use a monopod for a short while today. It's just too much of a pain with a tripod chasing bees and butterflies. I need one of those monopod/tripod things, I think those would be easier to quickly move around with.

[conropl]

Thank you, Pat! I tend to do macro shots all wrong ...handheld and auto-focusing. I need to change my ways!...

Why change what works. Your shots always look good. But with the 150mm it may get more difficult and may force a "tripod/monopod things" in order to get the keeper rate up. However, based on the shots you have shown so far, I would say you got the hand held down good.

[conropl]

A couple from a few weeks ago:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8284/7720086322_d3beab458f_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7720086322/)
Flowers-5518 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7720086322/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7720127948_0fea0b9247_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7720127948/)
Flowers-5513 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60479608@N05/7720127948/) by westmichigan (http://www.flickr.com/people/60479608@N05/), on Flickr

[ddt0725]

Thanks, Pat but I can't beat the sharpness of your macro shots! Absolutely beautiful flower shots!

Here are a few from yesterday ...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7722813486_de801ebb44_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722813486/)
IMG_6018 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722813486/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8286/7722826650_f47694216f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722826650/)
IMG_5864 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722826650/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8290/7722829856_8e2a9b6efb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722829856/)
IMG_5838 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722829856/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8288/7722832420_ee9e50ecbc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722832420/)
IMG_5835 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7722832420/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

Last shot was chosen by Popular Photography magazine for Photo of the Day on 8/06/12!

http://www.popphoto.com/photo-of-the-day/08-06-2012?cmpid=enews081612&spPodID=020&spMailingID=4704817&spUserID=MTY4NjAxMjI2OTMS1&spJobID=282432415&spReportId=MjgyNDMyNDE1S0

[Richard Lane]

Congrats on the new lens Denise, it looks very nice!

I like your BIF shots, "Bees in flight"

[Jayson]

Thank you for the compliments Pat.

I really like your flower shots. The composition works for me, the second one especially! It may be my monitor but they seem a little warm on the color temp.

Denise, glad to see your liking the new lens. I am very impressed with your Bees! I like the detail you pulled out of the first one the best.

[conropl]

Denise - That BIF is amazing. I have tried to catch a bee mid-flight many times, and have never managed to get anything close to that sharp.


...It may be my monitor but they seem a little warm on the color temp.

Thank you for the comments Jayson.
I would not doubt the temp could be off. My monitor is old, small, and uncalibrated. Also, for some reason, when I post to flickr they turn out a bit darker most of the time (even viewing with the same monitor).

[Jayson]

Twelve Spotted Skimmer taken with 300mm f/4L IS and 68mm in kenko tubes

Natural Light
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iAFmtslZsAc/UCkMZinhIlI/AAAAAAAAFBA/RKlAeJs0yIc/s1600/2012_08_09_EOS+7D_027097+copy.jpg

Then with flash and 3 shots focus stacked
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXKp-6P8uJw/UCkMbUf64ZI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/Ht6vZC7fXlM/s1600/2012_08_09_EOS+7D_027117+copy.jpg

[ddt0725]

My, what big eyes you have!!! Great shots, Jayson!

I caught a shot of this guy yesterday! The last few days the sound of the cicada's has been so deafening that it has made sitting outside very uncomfortable on the ears!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8290/7766342238_5c67754d5c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7766342238/)
Cicada (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtrociophotography/7766342238/) by Denise Trocio ( www.dtrociophotography.com) (http://www.flickr.com/people/dtrociophotography/), on Flickr

[Jayson]

Great grab Denise. Those bugs are super ugly (and noisy). I caught one stuck in the fence last year and was amazed of what they actually look like.

[conropl]

Denise:
Nice close up. I have never seen one of those before.

Pat

[Jayson]

Itty Bitty Bee. Taken using 7D, 100mm Macro USM, 1.4 tc, and 68mm of tubes, 430 ex II with modifier. Lighting wasn't as good as I had hoped, but he wasn't bothered by me testing. Guy was the size of a nail head.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-k0I0jZUTsvg/UCvDaMcI-RI/AAAAAAAAFEE/QO74lzLKj5A/s800/2012_08_14_EOS 7D_027461 copy.jpg

Focus stacked from 4 images

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VOcnWGst4zI/UCvDdFaTUhI/AAAAAAAAFFg/WRQCJ-0Vd-I/s800/2012_08_14_EOS 7D_027483-E copy.jpg

[Jayson]

Here is what he's doing this morning. Made some progress last night.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-drs_8c_Hiqc/UCvv5vxv9SI/AAAAAAAAFGQ/MtUu6pUsYxQ/s800/2012_08_15_EOS%207D_027501-E%20copy.jpg

[ahab1372]

The start of a big nest?
Interesting,and nice shots.

Arnt

[ddt0725]

Wow, Jayson!!! Now that is what I call a sharp macro shot, love those first two!! Did you use a tripod? Macro slider?