Using your macro lens for landscape photos

Okay, so you might be scratching your head right now. A macro lens for landscapes? Isn’t that a bit like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut? Well, not quite. While it might seem unconventional, a 90mm macro lens can offer a unique perspective on the world around us. I recently had the new Tamron 90mm macro while travelling and decided it was the lens I had on the camera then, so why not use it?

Hubby with the Tamron 90mm macro on his Nikon Z63

We were visiting Lake Tyrrell, a large inland salt lake in country Victoria. We have visited this area many times, and you never quite know what conditions you will find. This time, the whole area was very dry, leaving interesting salt-encrusted formations on trees, rocks, and old fence posts throughout. I have captured it with a variety of lenses over the years, but never quite like this with a macro lens.

Why a macro lens for landscapes?

• Unique perspective: The longer focal length of a macro lens compresses perspective, making distant objects appear closer together. This can lead to some dramatic and visually striking images, especially in wide-open landscapes.
• Sharpness and detail: Macro lenses are renowned for their exceptional sharpness and detail. This translates to crystal-clear landscape images, even when zoomed in.
• Bokeh: The shallow depth of field characteristic of macro lenses can be used creatively to isolate specific elements in a landscape, drawing the viewer’s eye to the point of interest.

Getting creative with your macro lens

While landscapes are a great way to utilize a macro lens, don’t forget about its primary purpose: capturing tiny details. Get up close and personal with nature’s intricacies. Explore the delicate veins of a salt flat, the intricate patterns of a flower, or the texture of a rock or tree.

Technical tips

• Aperture: Experiment with different apertures to control the depth of field. A wider aperture (lower f-number) will produce a shallower depth of field, isolating your subject. A narrower aperture (higher f-number) will increase the depth of field, allowing you to capture more of the scene in focus.
• Focus: Macro lenses often require precise focusing. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and avoid camera shake. Consider using focus peaking or magnification to achieve critical focus.
• Lighting: Pay attention to the lighting conditions. Soft, diffused light can help to minimize harsh shadows and highlight details. Try shooting early morning or late afternoon for the lovely soft diffused light.
• Composition: Use the rule of thirds to create visually appealing compositions. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add interest to your images.

So, the next time you’re out exploring the great outdoors, don’t be afraid to reach for your macro lens. You might be surprised at the unique and captivating images you can capture. Remember, photography is all about experimentation. Have fun and let your creativity soar! I adore the images I captured with my macro lens.

Have you ever used your macro for landscapes or portraits? Perhaps you have another lens you use for something other than its “usual” genre? Tell us about it in the comments!

• Posted on November 6, 2024