What makes a good Macro photo?

[AlexisRhea]

I love doing macro shots, but it occurred to me that I'm not really sure what makes a macro great. I suppose it depends on subject matter. Do you want to see the entire subject - say a flower for example, or do you want to see the details more than anything? Tell me O Wise Ones. I seek enlightenment.

And for the sake of discussions of examples, should I post in the general gallery or could I do it here?

Thanks in advance! :heart:

 

[Garbz]

The things that make a good macro are no different from any other photo. Try to obey the rule of thirds, and make a pleasing and interesting image. Try to remove elements that distract from the subject. Most definitely watch your focus too because macro gives you a very tiny depth of field.

 

[panocho]

As mentioned, the most important thing could be focus. It is not easy to get the focus right at macro.

Then I also agree in that there is nothing in particular to mention for macro photography; as in any picture, an interesting subject, interesting perspective, originality, try to show your own way of looking, etc.

Between the two aspects that you mention, I would prefer going to some detail rather than taking the entire subject. But this is only a general/abstract comment that may not necessarily apply, of course

 

[AlexisRhea]

Thanks for the responses!
Okay, so focus is the top priority. Maybe I should ask what makes a macro a macro? Is it just the DOF?

Thanks!

 

[c_mac]

Thanks for the responses!
Okay, so focus is the top priority. Maybe I should ask what makes a macro a macro? Is it just the DOF?

Thanks!

I don't think its just DOF alone. that certainly helps. but i think showing the detail and the texture of something is really the most important. but of course to get that just right you have to have the focus dead on!

 

[pm63]

From a beginners point of view, there's no recipie for photos. I think that as long as the photo looks good, you and other people like it, then it's all good. If its creative and touches people in some way - even better.

 

[Garbz]

Actually does a formal definition for macro exist? I know the Nikkor 35-105mm f3.5-4.5 is defined as Macro. It has a reproduction ratio of 1:1.6 and is not a true macro lens by any stretch.

Is there a boundry anyone knows of?