Macro Camera

Even a little point and shoot can capture some amazing close ups.

It turns out I didn't need a big, expensive digital SLR to take quality macro shots after all.

Here are some really simple steps I took to enhance my pocket-sized digital camera.

Obviously, turn on your "macro mode". This is the little flower icon either on the back of your camera, or nestled within your menu settings.

Until you are ready to mess with lighting, I would recommend shooting outside during the day. Don't attempt shooting water drops inside until later.
(If you are at that stage, check out these videos.)

Then, get a tripod. You will find this tip time and time again. The camera absolutely has to be steady.

Set the camera to "Timer Mode". You know, the setting you use to take a picture of yourself. Doing this eliminates the vibration of you touching the shutter button.

And believe it or not, that's about it. At least for beginners. You can get into 1:1 ratio and the technical side of macro photos, but if you want to start taking really close up photos quickly, try these steps first.

Now, if your camera can't seem to get close enough, and just goes all blurry on you, I recommend picking up a magnetic macro lens. These things fit virtually any point and shoot. I explain how it works here.

If it's STILL blurry, you may want to put a small beanbag on top of the camera. This will take away whatever vibration is left from the shutter clicking, or even a slight breeze. (A ziplock with sand in it works too.)

I'll be the first to admit though that I still need ALOT of practice, so if you just read this and thought "Duh." I would recommend this book. It's by, and for, folks who know a great deal more than me!