Recently, I had an opportunity to use macro photography with some mushrooms that had sprung up in my front yard. We had been having a period of a lot of rain and it was interesting to watch these grow and then die in a matter of days due to the heat and sun. In one section huge amounts of mushrooms crowded into a small, multi-level area creating an interesting texture. It also created challenges in macro photography. How does one position a tripod with such little space to maneuver?

mushroom patch

Here are a few tips for macro photography:

1. Use a tripod or something to prop and stabilize the camera. You will need this because your shutter speed will be very slow.  A very high ISO could help provide a faster shutter speed, but also will produce some grain and noise in your image. On the images below I had my camera positioned on the ground with some cushioning beneath.
2. Lock the Rear Mirror in the up position or use the Live View function. Refer to your camera’s manual to learn the specifics on how to do this.
3. I find it best to use manual focus and a camera shutter release. Also taking multiple images with different focus points is useful if needed in post processing to achieve the necessary depth of field.
4. Observe how the light is hitting your subject and position yourself to maximize the most dramatic effect.
5. One thing macro photography does require is an abundance of patience. So be calm and enjoy the process.

As I worked the subject more, I was able to isolate a few mushrooms grouped together that created a more interesting photograph.

Macro image of mushrooms in rocks

Lastly, I found one mushroom standing by itself with some great filter light. This one ended up my favorite macro photograph which reinforces the notion that less is more!

fine art print, mushroom art, mushroom photograph

Thanks for reading and to see more of my work, please visit my website!