By Ludwig “BugMan” Eksteen

Ever since I can remember, I have been passionate about entomology (the study of insects). Alongside my passion for entomology I had developed a passion for photography which, I realised, could be combined with entomology to educate and show people just how amazing insects and other small creatures really are. Since many insects are rather small, macro photography is the only technique that can be used to observe these small creatures in detail. My video on macro photography is a short introduction into macro photography, where I discuss all the gear that you will need (or already have), how to set up your “studio” to take macro photos and explain some of the important aspects of macro photography. Macro photography is a way in which you can explore the world of small creatures around you and share what you have discovered with other people, because that is how we all learn. For more information on entomology, nature and photography you can visit “A BugMan’s Life” on YouTube.

“Macro photos are close-up photos of small items, insects, spiders or flowers that make them appear larger than life”. – Ludwig Esteen

Lenses for macro photography

  • Start out with basic Canon 18-55mm kit lens and, if you want to get close, add an extension tube to decrease the focusing distance of your lens.
  • For sharper photos, a 50mm prime lens will add quality to your work. Once again, you can use it with an extension tube for truly close-up shots.
  • To truly step up your game, the Canon 100mm prime lens features excellent macro capabilities. Its true magnification ratio is 1:1, which means that the subject your are photographing in real life will be that same size as on the camera sensor.