So, you want to try out macro photography but you've noticed that the cheapest macro lens available would cost at least 300 bucks! Yes, macro photography involves photographing subjects that are really small, so a camera lens that is capable of doing such a feat doesn't come cheap. But then, macro photography is one of those things that every photography enthusiast has to try at some point in their life. In fact, several photographers who do try it become completely addicted to it! There is just something about making a huge print out of something that your eye can barely notice.
I hope I got your attention now! So let's see how to get your first taste of macro photography using equipment that you already have or can easily find and, most importantly, is cheap! Before we start, there are few points that your need to remember in macro photography.
1. You need to get close to your object of interest, and I mean really close!
2. Plenty of light is always good.
3. Steady hands or a tripod is a must (I would highly recommend a tripod).
Image : Tanakawho
Of course there are some additional points that you need to remember to really make your macro photographs stand out. Let's consider this a primer to get you started on that path.
The following DIY photography project is for already own a DSLR camera, who have more than one lens and one that is capable of at least 50mm focal length.
What You Need to Make Your Own Macro Lens:
1. Any Digital SLR camera
2. Two lenses ( ideally an 18-55 mm & a 50mm would suffice - or at least one of the lenses should be capable of a focal length above 50mm for a good macro)
3. Good lighting
4. Remote shutter release - preferred but not necessary!
5. Tripod - ideally a small table top version.
6. Tape - to put the lenses together
Remove any filters or polarisers you might have on the lenses.
Image : Distillate
Please continue on to the next page of this DIY photography project to learn the steps it takes to create your own macro lens.