Self Eye Macro

[nsthreed]

Hey,

I'm looking for some advice on doing a self macro eye shot of myself, I actually use a Canon 400d along with Canon 60mm macro 2.8 lens. Is there any specific method to pull this off, I have tried it and it is very difficult to obviously see how it looks while your holding your camera the other way and if the focus is right at all. I shall show an example of what I'm trying to do below;

I greatly appreciate it if anyone can hand me some advice (also i own a canon 430ex flashgun) jsut incase you ask about a flashgun. Thanks

 

[LocoDuck]

Sorry I have never worked directly with a 400D, but could you tether it to your computer? I think I remember being able to do this with a 10D, but it has been a while, and it could have been any number of DSLRs I have been through. It sure would make framing/repeatability/minor adjustments much easier

 

[nsthreed]

Sorry I have never worked directly with a 400D, but could you tether it to your computer? I think I remember being able to do this with a 10D, but it has been a while, and it could have been any number of DSLRs I have been through. It sure would make framing/repeatability/minor adjustments much easier

What do you mean by 'tether' it to my computer?

 

[Johnmcd]

Hi,

As noted before, this is probably the wrong forum for this. Maybe a macro forum?

Anyway since you're here 🙂

The photo you are trying to replicate would be near impossible to do as a 'self portrait' - certainly I would never attempt it. So first things first, get a good model. Anyone that can sit still.

Next, while the 400D and 60mm macro is a fine combination the learning curve associated with getting such a shot is enormous. Macro photography demands a high level of technical skill and, above, all patience. And probably a decent ring flash as well...

I feel that at this stage you are feeling a little frustrated that you have the right gear but can't take all those wonderful macros that you have seen.

At this stage my advice, which may appear to be taking you backwards would be to purchase a P&S digital that has a good macro setting. The images you get with that at this stage will be far better than would you will get with the DSLR and macro lens. With time and knowledge that will change and your DSLR setup will take over.

I have a Ricoh GRD which has a incredible macro mode. I would choose this to do the 'eye' shot you are hoping for. In macro mode the GRD will focus down to about a one cm and in good light you could pull that off, handheld.

The GRD is pricey though, but I am sure there are other P&S cameras that also have a good macro.

Taken with GRD handheld, available light. I doubt with my meagre DSLR macro experience I could of got this shot.

Anyway, good luck and all the best. If I have time I might even try an 'eye' shot myself 🙂

Cheers,

John

 

[Johnmcd]

What do you know? I found an 'eye' photo that I took some time ago with the GRD. Macro mode @ 800 iso - handheld.

Not saying it's on par but change the angle and lots of post processing and you are well on your way 🙂

Cheers,

John

 

[pvdhaar]

What do you mean by 'tether' it to my computer?

It's setting the USB function of your DSLR in PTP mode instead of mass storage which is default. If you now link it to a USB port on the computer and have the appropriate software, you can fire the camera from the computer, and when the picture is taken view the image immediately on screen. This way you don't have to constantly turn the camera around to see what you've shot, and you can incrementally improve the picture..