Best gear for macro photography

Lenses

A true macro lens has a magnification ratio of at least 1:1, which means objects are reflected onto the sensor at full size. Currently there are three macro lenses in the Z mount line-up – two full frame and one DX. They are the NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8, the NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S and the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7. The last of these is specifically designed for use with Nikon Z DX cameras such as the Z50II or Zfc, and gives you a full-frame equivalent focal length of around 50mm. You can also use the FX lenses with DX cameras, but we don’t recommend using DX lenses with an FX body.

Your subject choice can help decide what focal length lens you use for macro work. With insects, for example, it can be a good idea to use a longer focal length, which keeps you further from the subject and means you are less likely to scare it away.

Whichever you choose, all three can also be used as ‘regular’ lenses – the NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 and NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 as great all-rounders, and the NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S as a fantastic option for portraits.

Accessories

One of the great joys of macro photography is that, working at such a tiny scale, you can pack a whole photography studio into a small bag. 

Tripod

You’re going to want to use a tripod to keep everything sharp. The focal plane of macro lenses can be razor thin, so keeping the camera steady is a must. If you’re going on an insect safari, it’s useful to have a very short, desk-style tripod to get the camera as low to the ground as possible but still stable. We recommend tripods from Manfrotto and Gitzo. Or you can rest the camera on something solid on the ground. To avoid camera shake, you can also operate the shutter remotely (which you can do with either a dedicated remote control or the free Nikon SnapBridge app).

Lights

Small and inexpensive LED lights can effect big changes on your images. Think of your working area as a tiny studio and follow the same guidelines for lighting, with things such as key light, fill light and back light. LEDs that offer variable colour temperature give you added flexibility.

Filters

A CPL (Circular Polarising) filter can be useful for outdoor macro photography, as it will reduce glare and reflections from shiny insects and leaves while boosting saturation. Remember to check your exposure when using a CPL filter, as it will block a small amount of light.

Reflector

A folding reflector with a translucent surface can be a great diffuser for harsh sunlight when shooting outdoors. We recommend Profoto reflectors.

Backgrounds

The thin focal plane of a macro lens often means that the background of your image is completely blurred. Turn this to your advantage on indoor shoots by using coloured paper as a background, choosing something that complements your subject.