Perspective. Patience. and Personality!

Perspective.

As with any genre of photography, sometimes you have to change your perspective to get a shot that will elevate your composition, and the photograph overall. It can be extremely difficult to do this, though, with macro and closeup nature photography...especially if you're like me and prefer to shoot without a tripod. So...guess what? You know that handy-dandy screen on the back of your camera? You know...Live View...the one that you may feel you're "too good" to use with your fancy DSLR? Guess what...use it! It will help you view the macro world in a new way, without breaking your back or falling into the bushes. And, bonus: you can more clearly see what areas are in focus. I had this realization and used it as a creative exercise on a recent trip to a garden and, I have to say, it was enlightening.

Patience.

No, seriously...you need patience when doing macro work, particularly in a natural environment. First, the slightest breeze is going to make a clear shot early impossible. So, just wait for the moment.

Second, take the time to steady yourself. I do not have image stabilization on my macro lens, which means I have to be so incredibly still...and balanced (which is not always easy for me!) There are ways to get around this, by increasing your shutter speed to at least twice the length of your lens (e.g., if using a 100mm lens, your shutter speed should be at least 1/200). And yes, this is challenging if you're in a darker environment like a greenhouse. Third, you may have to take a lot of shots...but it's okay! The flowers and plants are going to be there...at least during your shoot! They will not judge you, they will not disobey you. They will stay there, showing their very best angle and flourishing in their environment!

Personality.

Both yours, and your subject! Just because plants do not have a face or outward emotion does not mean they do not have personality or evoke emotion from the viewer. And you also have personality...a unique personality and only you can make images that portray it! Think about that...every image you make, you are the only one to make that image. Ever. Yes, I know...100 people may take a picture of that same tulip, but no one will have your perspective or uniqueness or vision. That solely belongs to you!