How to: Pro Tips for Creative Close-Ups

Images and Tips by Tony Shepherd 

In this post, we share pro tips for capturing creative close-ups that make everyday details stand out. From selecting the right lens to mastering focus and composition, these techniques will help you get sharper, more compelling images. Whether you’re shooting nature, products, or textures, these tips will elevate your close-up photography to the next level.

TIP 1: CREATE LAYERS

Even in macro mode, create a composition that has foreground, middle ground, and background. The details of the chain stand out more because we have varying degrees of depth in the spot by using multiple chains positioned at various distances in the frame.

TIP 2: FRAME THE SUBJECT

Don’t just shoot an object, shoot through objects. The steering wheel here creates just the right kind of frame to give you a more immersive sense of the shot. For context, the space below the steering wheel helps the viewer orient themselves around the dash and better appreciate the detail that pops out in the classic “C” knob.

TIP 3: SHOOT FROM BELOW OR ABOVE

Make ordinary scenes look better by varying the height of your shot. Getting down low to for this shot makes you feel small next to these towering trains. That low angle makes the trains feel as big as we know they are, adding to a sense of immersion.

TIP 4: ADD TEXTURES

Mixing textures can help heighten the sense of drama in a photo, especially in black and white. The subject is wearing a straw hat that offers a lot of texture, making a perfect complement to the tone and texture of the skin. If you want to make a portrait “pop” have your subject wear a texture rich hat or other article of clothing to heighten the drama.

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