When I first started photographing weddings. I remember seeing those beautifully detailed close up shots. The ones where you could see every cut of the diamond, or the necklace perfectly dangling off the bouquet. So, as a beginner I started doing the trial and error method of maybe my 50mm would be good enough for this? Nope. Maybe my 35mm? Still… not what I’m looking for.

Shortly after I started researching macro lenses. As a new photographer, and ballin’ on a budget, I was in sticker shock looking at these prices. Although I know you get what you pay for, I also didn’t have the means to pay for them at the time. But, I knew I wanted that detail in my close up photos on wedding days. My clients deserved that, that much I knew.

In walks (okay google search or target ad, you get it) the best little hack money can buy! MACRO FILTERS.

So here is the thing. Every DSLR lens has it’s focal length (for example 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, and so on) but it also has a measurement for the actual front lens circumference. These macro filters, are just like any UV filter you would screw on to the front of your lens for protection, but instead they MAGNIFY your subject and create a DIY macro lens, for 1/10 of the normal price.

Below you can see how these filters photograph this ring layout with the macro filters on a 50mm lens vs. shooting the same layout with my standard Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro.

As you can see, there really isn’t a HUGE difference between the filters or the macro lens itself. Especially when you think of the 700 dollars you’ll be saving, and the variety you’ll be adding to your wedding day galleries for your clients! As a new photographer, or business owner in general, it’s smart to invest your money in the beginning. This money saved could be better invested into a course, or e-book purchase to help you learn how to better serve your clients.

These Hoya Filters can be found through my Amazon page, alongside all the others lenses and other products I use in my business.

 

Bonus Detail Shots Tips & Tricks:

• when photographing rings try bumping your f-stop to around 4.0 and focusing on the prong on the diamond, rather than into the face of the diamond.
• use lens caps to hover invitation suites away from the background to create dimension in an image.
• try starting your detail shots on wedding days, by photographing EVERYTHING in one huge layout, and then focusing on smaller sections or pieces in tighter, more detailed shots.

 

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Other posts you’ll fall in love with:

Streamlining the Client Album Design Process

5 Ways to Use The Off Season Wisely

How to Photograph Black Clothing (For Brighter Photographers)

 

***this blog does contain affiliate links. every product I recommend or reference is one I have personally used and has been along side me throughout my photography journey***