{"id":13704,"date":"2018-07-13T10:00:08","date_gmt":"2018-07-13T10:00:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.bernhardherzog.com\/?p=13704"},"modified":"2022-05-24T05:34:07","modified_gmt":"2022-05-24T05:34:07","slug":"macro-photography","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/macro-photography\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Tips for Macro Photo\/Videography \ud83d\udc1d\ud83d\udc1c\ud83d\udd77\ufe0f &#8211; Meike MK-S-AF3A Macro Extension Tubes Review"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Macro-Photography opens a whole new world. I want to show you how you can do it for cheap. Read on to see my top tips.<!--more--><\/p>\n<h2>YouTube-Video<\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"10 Tips for Macro-Photos\/Videos \ud83d\udc1d\ud83d\udc1c\ud83d\udd77\ufe0f (Meike MK-S-AF3A Extension Rings vs. Minolta 50mm Macro)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Wf8FS2sf4QI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>Macro Lenses vs. Extension Tubes<\/h2>\n<p>Dedicated macro lenses are quite expensive. One option is to buy a vintage macro lens and use an adapter to put it on your camera.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13754\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit-300x233.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit-300x233.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit-1024x796.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit-768x597.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit-1536x1194.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9146-Edit-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Another option is to use extension tubes that you put between the camera and the lens. This reduces the minimum focus distance and you can get more close to your subject.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13710\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit-300x247.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"247\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit-300x247.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit-1024x844.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit-768x633.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit-1536x1265.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9138-Edit-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The disadvantage of using extension tubes is that you have to get really close like 1-2cms. Also the pictures will not be as sharp as using a macro lens, because the lens you are extending is usually not built for that resolution.<\/p>\n<p>The advantage of using extension tubes is that they are very cheap and also lightweight. You can use them for travel and don&#8217;t need to carry another heavy lens just for macro photography.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-17075\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00557.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-17076\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/DSC00406.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-15742\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/50754201_10218469152990208_3937993086352752640_o.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>But &#8211; macro lenses are of very good use for portrait photography. With extension tubes you are basically limited to the macro distance. But you can always remove them and use the lens as originally intended.<\/p>\n<h2>Meike MK-S-AF3A for Sony E-Mount<\/h2>\n<p>For my Sony camera I chose the <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Kj7Og8\">Meike MK-S-AF3A<\/a>. Those extension tubes have metal mounts.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13708\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit-300x244.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"244\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit-300x244.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit-1024x833.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit-768x624.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit-1536x1249.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9143-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Kj7Og8\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.de<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2EnOWac\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.com<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2CaHRJZ\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.co.uk<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2TbpTBh\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.fr<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Uhhj0j\">Buy Extension Tubes @ amazon.ca (from Neewer)<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Those tubes are more durable. There is also a plastic version which is cheaper, <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2KtA0MB\">the Meike MK-S-AF3B<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The tubes don&#8217;t contain any optics.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13706\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit-300x229.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"229\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit-300x229.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit-1024x780.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit-768x585.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit-1536x1170.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9140-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>But they have electronic contacts which is important for aperture control.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13707\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit-300x212.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"212\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit-300x212.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit-1024x724.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit-768x543.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit-1536x1086.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9141-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Autofocus is not so important for macro photography but it is nice that it is also working.<\/p>\n<p>They are of very high quality and I am happy with them.<\/p>\n<h2>Plastic tubes for Canon AF Mount<\/h2>\n<p>I have another set of tubes for my Canon full-frame camera.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13709\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit-233x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"233\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit-233x300.jpg 233w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit-795x1024.jpg 795w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit-768x989.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit-1193x1536.jpg 1193w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9137-Edit.jpg 1590w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 233px) 100vw, 233px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>They also have contacts for the electronics but are made of pure plastic.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-13711\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit-300x293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit-300x293.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit-1024x1000.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit-768x750.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit-1536x1500.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/IMG_9139-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>They work fine but I would not recommend buying those if you want to use them often because the plastic is not very robust. Then I recommend buying tubes of which the mounting part is metal.<\/p>\n<h2>10 tips for macro photography<\/h2>\n<h3>1. Use a Tripod<\/h3>\n<p>With macro photography the depth of field is very narrow. Small movements forward and backward with the camera to change the focus are more efficient than changing the focus on the camera. Activate manual focus and put the camera on a tripod. You can change the focus by moving the tripod forward and backward.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-13775 size-large\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit-1024x603.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"309\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit-1024x603.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit-300x177.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit-768x452.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit-1536x905.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9174-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>There are also macro rails to put on the tripod so you can move the camera ever so slightly by turning a knob and the tripod stays stationary.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_13768\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13768\" style=\"width: 525px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-13768 size-large\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9185-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-13768\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Using a long plate to slide the camera forward\/backward<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Using the tripod only works for stationary subjects.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Stabilize the lens on the floor<\/h3>\n<p>Another technique for handheld shooting is that you put the front of the lens on the floor. This stabilizes the lens and you can slide it forward and backwards to get the subject into focus.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13769\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9192-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is important for extension tubes, because you usually have to get very close to your subject and there is often not enough space to put a tripod. Also a minimal shake can blur the image and this technique helps in reducing the shake.<\/p>\n<h3>3. Use a photo\/video light<\/h3>\n<p>Because you have to get very close to your subject and the depth of field is so small you will want to shoot at smaller apertures like F8 to get as much in focus as possible. But for this you will need a lot of light or your ISO will increase. Esp. with extension tubes the image will not be as sharp as with dedicated macro lenses and adding a high ISO to the equation results in bad quality pictures.<\/p>\n<p>The solution for this is to shoot outside in bright sunlight or to use an LED light. You can buy a ring light or ring flash that wraps around your lens or use any small LED light (or even the LED of your phone). I recently tested the <a href=\"\/de\/176-led\/\">Neewer 176 Photo Studio light<\/a> which should work well for this purpose.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13770\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit-1024x631.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"324\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit-768x474.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit-1536x947.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9205-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>You can also use a small reflector to reflect the sunlight onto your subject.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Use burst on your camera<\/h3>\n<p>When you have moving subjects like small insects and maybe even the wind is moving the leaves they are sitting on, then you will have to make many pictures and only a few will be in focus or with the animal looking in your direction. You can use the burst mode of your camera to make a sequence of pictures and choose the best (sharpest) one later.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13771\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9211-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3>5. Use focus peeking<\/h3>\n<p>Most mirrorless cameras offer focus peeking, where you can see which area of the picture is in focus. I have selected a red color and the edges of the area in focus are highlighted in this color.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_13772\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13772\" style=\"width: 525px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-13772 size-large\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-13772\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Field monitors have a focus peaking option as well.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>6. Use your smartphone to frame your shot<\/h3>\n<p>If you photograph on floor level it might be hard to see your LCD let alone look through the viewfinder to see if your subject is in focus. Many cameras can be operated from the smartphone and it might be easier to frame your shot that way.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13776\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/Screenshot_20180713-131538_PlayMemories-Mobile-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3>7. Use an external monitor<\/h3>\n<p>Well you saved a lot of money buying extension tubes instead of a macro lens and now want to buy an external monitor? Go ahead! Because the picture on your camera&#8217;s LCD is so small it is much easier to see everything by connecting an external field monitor using the HDMI port of your camera. Those monitors usually offer focus peeking as well so focusing that way will be a breeze!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13772\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9212-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Pro Tip: You can use your TV or PC monitor to connect your camera via HDMI. Works only if you are shooting at home of course.<\/p>\n<h3>8. Use focus stacking<\/h3>\n<p>We talked about the problem that only a small area of your subject will be in focus. If your subject is not moving you could make several pictures with different parts in focus and later use your picture editing application to combine those pictures into one where everything is in focus.<\/p>\n<p>The problem with this is that you should not move your camera so you need something in the camera that automatically takes the pictures while moving the focal plane. Unfortunately only a few cameras offer this feature like the Fuji XT-2 in the latest firmware update.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_13773\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13773\" style=\"width: 525px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-13773 size-large\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit-1024x726.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"372\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit-1024x726.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit-768x545.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit-1536x1090.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9214-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-13773\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Focus stacking on Sony using the free app ma1co (seems to work only on Sony a5100)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If your camera does not offer focus stacking you can still try to do it manually by putting the camera on a tripod and changing the focus manually (go into manual focus first).<\/p>\n<h3>9. Use clear image zoom for video on Sony cameras<\/h3>\n<p>Sony cameras offer &#8220;Clear Image Zoom&#8221; where you can zoom in while taking a video without much loss in quality. So if you already use extension tubes you can get even closer for your video. This will be very difficult for following something that is moving without creating a very shaky footage but why not put the camera on a tripod and show something that you hold between your fingers?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-13774\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/IMG_9218-Edit.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you use Clear Image Zoom you might actually not need to use extension tubes or a macro lens at all.<\/p>\n<h3>10. Film in 4k or slow motion<\/h3>\n<p>If your camera supports higher resolutions you can use it of course to show even more details of your subject. For moving subjects it is better to use higher frame rates like 60 or 120 frames per second. This is because usually the subject will not be in perfect focus all the time and with higher framerates you can slow the footage down later and just use those parts.<\/p>\n<h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>I hope my tips are helpful. I think extension tubes are a good way to get started in macro photography and produce decent results already without having to carry a dedicated lens.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-15743\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/07\/51381348_10218470299098860_6948984852720910336_o.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I would recommend to preferably use the center of the lens for your subject because that is where the lens is usually the sharpest.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-13717 size-large\" src=\"http:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"525\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2018\/06\/DSC09356-Edit.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you have any question or other tips for macro photography to share please comment below I appreciate it. If you want to buy the extension tubes please use the following link. I will receive a small kickback for my efforts from anything you buy from this link without additional costs for you. Thank you!<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Kj7Og8\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.de (metal version)<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2KtA0MB\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.de (plastic version)<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2EnOWac\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.com<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2CaHRJZ\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.co.uk<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2TbpTBh\">Buy Meike Extension Tubes @ amazon.fr<\/a><br><a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Uhhj0j\">Buy Extension Tubes @ amazon.ca (from Neewer)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<p>\nRecommended camera equipment for photo, video &amp; travelling (AMAZON):<br \/>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3dtoewQ\">Sony a6600<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2zs3S8O\">Sony a6400 (cheaper)<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3gmdaUz\">Sony a6100 (Budget-Option for 4K)<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3doLThV\">Sigma 16mm 1.4<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2L85arK\">Sony 35mm 1.8<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2XFJIAr\">Samyang 12mm 2.0<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2SLjF9e\">Feelworld Master MA7<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3An8x5U\">Smaller monitor<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ZCRX2z\">Rode VideoMicro<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lGnNqk\">Rode Wiress Go II<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3c4b8oy\">Mini Tripod<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/36r6rE0\">Travel Tripod<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3ehqabY\">Small LED-Light<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2WePY2o\">Light #1 (powerful)<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2LdekmK\">Light #2 (Bi-Color)<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3goi5V4\">Softbox for this light<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3ghvJch\">Light tent\/box<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3efP9wl\">DJI Osmo Action<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/38BxnEs\">GoPro 9<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ARn9ke\">GoPro MAX<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ZxjGSb\">Invisible Selfie Stick<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lotarf\">Mavic Mini 2 drone<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ATMNVv\">Mavic Air 2<\/a>\n<br \/>for photo and video:<br \/>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3gmf6fN\">Fuji XT-4<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2TBvC1u\">Fuji Telezoom<\/a>\n<a class=\"call-to-action-button heartbeat\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/36tYvSC\">Entry level camera (Canon)<\/a>\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Macro-Photography opens a whole new world. I want to show you how you can do it for cheap. Read on to see my top tips.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":13717,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,20,19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13704","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-photo","category-review","category-tutorial"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13704","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13704"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13704\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13717"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13704"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13704"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bernhardherzog.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13704"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}