Macro Lens for Close-Ups

A macro lens is a lens that allows you to shoot close to the object being photographed. This allows for close-up, detailed images for your auction that are sharp and in focus. A macro lens is particularly helpful when photographing condition issues or small details of an object.

If you are using a camera with an affixed (not interchangeable) lens, be sure the lens has a good macro capability. For cameras with interchangeable lenses (i.e. digital SLR's), purchase a marco lens with the system. A macro lens with focal lengths between 50 mm and 150 mm will allow you to take sharp, detailed images close in.

There are a few technical considerations when photographing close-up with a macro lens.

Lighting
When shooting with a macro lens, a bright strong lightsource is required for best results. Placing your lights close to the object being photographed will be helpful.

Focus and camera stability
Using a macro lens will exaggerate the negative effects of lens shake. Even the slightest movement of the camera at the moment a photo is taken will degrade the quality of your image. The best ways to minimize or reduce the effects of lens shake are to

• use a tripod for close-in macro photography
• use a shutter speed of 1/125th of a second of faster.