As I mentioned earlier this week, using the macro setting on your point-and-shoot camera is essential to taking clear photos with sharp focus. If the camera you are currently using does not have a macro setting then it is time for you to look into buying a new camera.

Your new camera needn't be expensive. There are a lot of really great point-and-shoot cameras out on the market today that are under $200. Here are a few tips for comparing the macro functions on each camera in the camera section:

1. Turn on the camera's macro function (usually a dial or button)      
2. Point the lens at something close, like the camera right next to you
3. Get as close as possible until one part of the object fully fills the frame
4. Auto-focus by pressing the shutter button 1/2 way down
5. If the box in the center of the screen is RED, then let go of the button, back up about 1/2" and then refocus again.
6. Keep repeating step 5 until the box turns GREEN
7. Take the photo by pressing the shutter button all the way down
8. Before you move, take a look at how close the lens is to the object and make a note of it.
9. Review the photo for clarity by zooming in on the photo (usually done by pressing on the zoom feature when viewing a photo)

In general, the closer the macro function will let you get to an object, the better the camera.
A decent macro function in a point and shoot camera will let you focus on your object anywhere from 10cm all the way down to 1cm. Just remember - closer is better.

Why so close? 
In order to take the most dramatic and detailed photos possible, you must be able to get up-close and personal with your small objects! It's much better (and faster!) to take great photos in-camera than to try to adjust each photo in your photo editing software.

Next time: Time for your close-up: Let's talk about filling that frame!