When to Use This Cheat Sheet
Refer to this when shooting at close focus distances where depth of field collapses to millimeters. Macro demands precision in focus and exposure that normal shooting does not.
Quick Settings Reference
The table provides starting points for eight macro scenarios. At 1:1 magnification, depth of field at f/8 is roughly 2 mm. Plan accordingly.
Key Principles
- Depth of field is your main constraint. At 1:1, even f/16 yields only a few millimeters of sharp zone. Balance sharpness against diffraction.
- Focus stacking solves what aperture cannot. Shoot 10-30 frames at f/5.6, shifting focus slightly each time, then merge in software for front-to-back sharpness.
- Flash is your best friend. A ring flash or twin flash at low power (1/16 — 1/32) freezes subject motion and camera shake while keeping ISO low.
- Manual focus is standard. At macro distances, AF hunts. Use manual focus and rock your body forward and back to nail the focal plane.
- Diffraction kicks in early. On APS-C, softening starts around f/11. On full frame, f/16. Stay below these thresholds.
Adjustment Tips
- Use live view magnification to confirm focus before firing.
- A focusing rail on a tripod gives precise, repeatable focus shifts for stacking.
- Reduce flash power rather than stopping down further; this maintains sharpness.
- For flying insects, pre-focus at a working distance and wait for the subject to land in the zone.
Common Traps
- Stopping down to f/22 for “more depth of field” and getting diffraction-soft images.
- Handholding at 1/30s and blaming the lens for soft results.
- Forgetting that magnification amplifies camera shake; double your safe shutter speed.
- Using autofocus in continuous mode and having the lens rack back and forth endlessly.
ShutterCoach Connection
Upload your macro shot to ShutterCoach for feedback on sharpness, depth of field, and detail rendering.