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?
![macro photography and mushrooms](http://mcanany.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/mushroompatch-1.jpg)
mushroom patch
Here are a few tips for macro photography:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Observe how the light is hitting your subject and position yourself to maximize the most dramatic effect.
- 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 photography and mushrooms](http://mcanany.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/mushroomgroup.jpg)
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!
![macro photograpy with mushroom](http://mcanany.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/solomsuhroom-1.jpg)
fine art print, mushroom art, mushroom photograph
Thanks for reading and to see more of my work, please visit my website!