What is the best Light Source for Macro-Will it have to be a Flash Ring!!!

essexguy50

2

13 Aug 2009 - 8:41 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

Hi People

Have just purchased a Pentax k-m along with a Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro Lens.

What is going to be my best results with Macro shots so far as Lighting is concerned.

Will I have to purchase a Flash Ring (these look very Expensive) or do I have other Lighting options.

I want to take Macro shots of Plants etc and this will probally be outdoors location not inside.

Any help would be appreciated.

Tony

justin c

8

13 Aug 2009 - 10:20 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

Save yourself some money and just use natural light. Far more pleasing than flash IMHO.

Overread

3

13 Aug 2009 - 10:54 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

I would say what lighting you "need" depends on what and how you like to shoot.

For flowers and static subjects I would really recomend a tripod setup for best results - you will have time to set one up and it can give you a lot of options. From firstly being able to remove handshake and micro shake on the setup, to being able to use mirror lockup (read cameram manual for this) and a remote/timer function.
Now with a stable static shooting base and (hopefully) no or very little wind you can use a whole range of lighting setups - from just pure natural light, through to reflectors, flashes and more. Stable shooting and subjects will mean you can go to slower shutter speeds if needed, so you don't need that burst of instant light that flash gives

However if you prefer (or at odd times) want to shoot handheld and if you have any desire to go hunting after insects I would say flash is a great boon to have to such a setup. Of course which flash is a big question and my advice (again) is to start things simple, and for a flash versatile - go for one of the classic flash designes - that being a regular flash which will work for macro and more normal shooting as well. Ok it might give more limited light options (for macro) than other setups, but its a good starting point and with a diffuser (I use a lumiquest softbox) its something that will get a lot of use.
You can even tripod mount your camera and use an offcamera flashcord to position the flash in different positions (higher than the subject, pointing down and toward it and not too far away gives a very pleasing light - you can hold the camera on a tripod or handhold both - tricky but possible)).

Other flash lighting setups including more than one flash, ringlights, twinlights and others are all very good lighting sources, each with their own advantages and limitations. Start things of simple though and get a feel for how you like to shoot and what you want to shoot - then start to build up from there towardsa lighting setup that suits you

macroman

9

17 Aug 2009 - 11:16 AM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

I have used one of those 60 LED inspection lamps with some success.

Fully charged they last for hours, and are more controllable than flash.

And thay are cheeeeeeeap, around £10-£14.

I am actually considering taking one apart and converting it into a 'ring light'.