Camera Labs

When taking close up macro shots, do you guys put your camera on the macro setting or use custom settings?

What settings does putting your camera in macro mode change eg shutter and apatre settings?
What F number and shutter speed is best for macros?
Is it best to zoom out and go close to the subject, or zoom in and step back?

I don't use the macro setting on the weel, if that's the one you're talking about. But at the moment i don't even have a decent macro lens, so what do i know
However usually i zoom all the way in (55mm) and then go as close as possible. Unfornunatly the standard kit lens to the EOS 400D cant go very close.
As for F-value, you should usually go for a pretty high value, or you might risk loosing focus from the important part of the picture if you move just a very little. However there are no rules without exceptions and some pictures might benefit more of a low F-value. I'd say try the different settings urself and see what happens

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Jake

Canon EOS 400D + EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS + EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS + EF 50mm f/1.8
My Photos - My webpage (danish)