How To Take Close-Up Photos of Flowers

Whether you are an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, shooting flowers close-up (known as macro photography) is a great way to fine tune your skills while creating high-quality images. Flowers can be photographed both indoors and out, making them a great subject to use year-round.

Here are some tips and tricks that can help you produce your own unique photos of flowers:

The Basics of Macro Photography

Taking close-up shots is also known as macro photography. Most digital cameras, including both point-and-shoot and advanced SLR models, have a macro focus (or close-up) setting that automatically adjusts the aperture (the amount of light the camera actually sees) to a low setting, known as the f-stop. Even the most basic cameras can produce stunning results when used correctly. Exactly how to set the macro focus varies between cameras, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for instructions.

Use A Tripod and a Remote or Timer

A rock-steady hand is needed to achieve great results when using macro photography to shoot flowers. Any camera movement will be dramatically magnified due to the low aperture setting, leading to blurry pictures. A small, inexpensive tripod will allow you to adjust your camera angle while ensuring your photos are free from distortion caused by movement.

If you camera offers a remote shutter trigger as an optional accessory, consider using this while shooting close-up shots as extra insurance against any camera movement. Alternatively, use the timer setting on your camera to take close-up photos of flowers – unless you are shooting in a windy environment your subject won’t move, and using the timer prevents any camera movement caused by pressing the shutter button.

Linda Walker

Never Use A Flash

While flash photography is useful for many subjects, when shooting macro photos of flowers a flash tends to create a washed-out image, destroying the vibrant colors and details. Aim to shoot in natural light, or if indoors, use indirect area lighting to illuminate your subject.

Experiment With Digital Effects

Most digital cameras offer a variety of built-in effects that can let users practice some creativity while shooting, such as greyscale and sepia toning that gives shots a timeless, classic appearance. Other effects may include fisheye, cross-screen and retro. Experimenting with these effects while shooting flowers close-up can have some surprising results, so go ahead and play a bit.

Adjust Your Angle

Some of the most intriguing macro photographs are the result of the photographer shifting their angle slightly, shooting the subject from a different perspective. Try shooting flowers from the stem up or directly above.

Use Perspective

Some of the most incredible close-up shots are produced with the use of perspective – integrating another object into the shot. If you are patient, try to wait until a bumblebee lands on a flower or a ladybug crawls up the stem. You can also integrate unexpected items into the shot to create visual interest and contrast, such as laying a postage stamp on the pedal of a flower.

Tote A Spray Bottle

One of the oldest tricks that pro photographers use when shooting flowers up close is to mist the pedals and leaves with water. Adding just a few tiny droplets of dew to a flower can make the plant appear more vivid and alive, but don’t overdo it. Remember you want to make the flowers appear natural and vibrant, rather than having a just-watered garden look.

By following these simple tricks and techniques, you can create stunning close-up photos of flowers throughout the year.