CDLC: Macro Photography Projects for a Rainy (Or Hot) Day

From the Canon Digital Learning Center:

Author: Jim Rose

Normally I would write this blog in the winter months when it is cold and rainy outside. However, since I like shooting in the rain and it’s going to be 102 degrees outside today there is no better time to set up my home macro studio and create some great pictures.

First, what do you need to set up a home macro studio? Let’s start with the lighting equipment. I used two table lamps purchased at a local department store. The best ones to get are the ones with adjustable necks so you can get the light where it needs to be. Also, make sure you get lamps with LED lights. LED lights are smaller and lighter than regular bulbs, and they produce very little heat.

Any Canon EOS DSLR will give you great results. For this project, I chose the Canon EOS 80D. One of the reasons for choosing the 80D is the articulated LCD screen. Since I use Live View for most of these images, the articulated screen can be very handy when the camera is in low or high positions. You can rotate the screen so it is easy to view without having to kneel down or get on a stool to see the screen. An EF-S 60mm macro lens was used for most of the shots because it allows you to get in really close. If you don’t have a macro lens, a standard kit lens like the EF-S 18-55mm or a similar lens will do the job although you won’t be able to get in as close as you would with a macro lens. You can add a close up lens or an extension tube to your standard lens to allow you to get in close if you don’t want to invest in a macro lens at this time.

If you don't already own a macro lens but are interested in picking one up, check out Bryan's Macro Lens Recommendations.