A few days ago I asked myself whatever happened to macro photography? It's like everywhere I look people are crazy about portraits, fashion, glamour and landscapes. There's nothing wrong with that, but I just feel that this genre deserves a lot more attention.
I'm not in the best position to tell you why that is, but I found a video that might. Master photographer Thomas Shahan has made a video of himself out in the field, photographing alien like creatures that most people would run away from.
So what did I learn from Thomas's video? The first thing I was reminded of is that there is an entirely different world way down at grass level. We're so used to ignoring it because we can't see it well enough with our own eyes. Thomas gets close and personal with spiders, moths, bees and other creatures I've never heard of and basically takes their portrait.
He does so using old lenses that I seriously doubt would financially challenge any photographer. His work is all the proof you need, that you can take awesome photographs with inexpensive gear if you have the right skills.
He also emphasizes the use of flash in macro photography and although you don't see him using an expensive ring flash like a lot of amateur macro photographers buy, he demonstrates how you can achieve professional results with a pop-up flash.
Finally, I have to agree with his advice on post processing. If you want a good photograph, get it right from the camera. Basics adjustments like contrast and color correction are necessary, especially since all his subjects are quite colorful, but you shouldn't overdue anything or rely too much on your computer.
(Success Tip:The easiest way to learn photography when you have little time to spare)
With that said, there's plenty to learn from Thomas Shahan's video and I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Learn more about macro photography from these E-books
David Busch's Close-Up and Macro Photography Compact Field Guide
Close Up Photography in Nature
Mastering Macro Photography-Ideas, Tips, Tutorials & DIY Equipment
Image credits: All photographs provided by Tomas Shahan and used with permission.