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9 Tips for Using Macro Filters
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Want a new photography toy to play with that costs $9.95?

9 tips for using macro filters via click it up a notch

That’s right, I said NINE DOLLAR (and 95 cents!) Are you intrigued yet?!!! When I first heard about macro filters, I skimmed over the raves and photos and looked right at the price—and promptly followed the link and pressed buy! I knew I just had to try and if they weren’t any good then I figured I just lost less than it costs to get a treat from Starbucks—it was a gamble I was willing to take! *prices do vary, but most packs of 4 filters costs less than $20.

I have been using my filters for a little over a month, so I am by no means an expert, but I compiled a few tips I thought might be helpful to anyone interested in these fun little filters.

Read more: 7 Best macro photography tips

Know the size of your lens

macro filters

Before you hit buy, take off the lens cap of the lens you want to use the filters with and turn it over. You will see a number (52mm, 58mm, 62mm, etc.) THIS is the size of your lens and you will want to make sure that you buy the correct size filters. Remember in that first paragraph I told you I saw the price, followed the link and pressed buy?? Yep, I bought the wrong size. I had NO idea they even came in different sizes or where to look for the width size of my current stash of lenses. I currently use my filters with my Nikon 50mm 1.8 (which requires a 52mm filter) and I can’t use them with my 85mm (which is 62mm)

macro filters

What do you get?

macro filters

Macro filters typically come in packs of 4. Each filter has a different magnification level. The 4 in my pack are +1, +2, +4 and +10…the higher the number the more magnification the filter creates. I love that mine came in a portable case that keeps them padded and protected. I stick them in my camera bag/purse so I have them with me always-they are very light and totable.

What do you do?

macro filters

Now that you have your filters in hand, decide which magnification level you want and then screw it on to the end of your lens. Pretty simple. Unless you are me and try to snap them on. Oops. Remember that the lower the number, the less magnification you’ll get.

What else can you do?

macro filters

You can screw the filters on to each other—making the magnification greater than just one filter alone. The photos below show the range you can achieve with the filters. The first shot below of the goldfish was taken with just the +1 filter and the second shot was with all 4 of the filters screwed onto each other. (The photos under tip #1 with the sizes of the lenses also shows the range between the filters)

6 (2)

Get close

This may seem really obvious, but alas, to me it was not! In my first shots with the filters on, I couldn’t get anything in focus through my viewfinder. I was too far away. I am a 100% a prime shooter, so I am quite familiar and comfortable with the distance I need to be from my subjects for each of my lenses (35, 50 and 85) so I automatically stood at the distance I needed to be with my 50mm on, which was not anywhere near close to where I needed to be. So I moved in closer and closer–it was quite uncomfortable at first because part of my shooting style is to keep a respectable distance from my subjects. I felt like I was suffocating the poor box of crayons! I was seriously out of my comfort zone. So my advice is to almost have the lens touching your subject and start slowly pulling back until you get something in focus. I have had no trouble using my autofocus with the filters (Nikon D700 and 50mm 1.8), but I have also experimented with manual focus and have found that just as easy with the filters. If you have trouble grabbing focus in autofocus, try switching to manual.

macro filters

Close Down

macro filters

I wish I figured this one out earlier! I typically shoot (with my 85 or 50mm) with my aperture set between f 2.8 and f4…and so therefore I made no adjustments when I first screwed on the filters. When I uploaded my photos, there was little to nothing actually in focus. I was not making any adjustments for the fact that the magnification greatly reduces the focal plane. So-I closed down to f14 and got much better results.

Speaking of the focal plane…

9 (2)

It is very, very small. And the slightest movement, forward or backwards, will pull you out of focus. The less magnification, the more leeway you have. When you put on that 10+ filter, it is HARD to get something in focus. It is hard to stay still. Try a tripod. I have a newfound respect for surgeons! However, don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. In my attempts at a steady hand, I have some out of focus shots that I have come to love. Try to appreciate the beauty in the attempt.

macro filters

Make MISTAKES!

macro filters

Lots and LOTS and lots of mistakes! I am firm believer that there is no better teacher than your own mistakes. The very first photos I took with my filters were on my daughter’s curls. I so desperately want some close ups of those precious spirals. First attempts=EPIC FAIL. That is when I realized I should have started with a stationary object. I learned from that mistake. I also had a super high aperture thinking that I just wanted a sliver of her curls in focus. I did not know that the focal plan is greatly reduced when using a filter—so I also learned I need to really close down. A lot.

Get creative

macro filters

I love getting to be creative without spending a fortune. These filters allow me to explore macro photography without the high price tag of a dedicated macro lens. I can also use these filters as a part of my shot—something I’m not sure would be quite as easy with a real macro lens.

If you’d like to see some more stunning examples of how you can rock macro filters, please check out my talented friend, Heidi Howard of Maehill Studio. She’s got some great eye candy for you!

If you’ve made it all the way through, I have a surprise for one of you! Remember that pack of filters I bought in the wrong size?! I’m giving them away!! They are for 58mm size lenses…so if you have a lens you can use them on—enter to win them!

Thank you Brennan for giving away a set of macro filters! Below are the details.

Macro Filters Giveaway Details

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please “share” this giveaway on Facebook. It doesn’t count as an entry but I’d appreciate it :)

Contest open from October 9-11th midnight EST.
Contest is only open to US residents. Please read the Giveaway Policy.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Google Plus. We hereby release Facebook and Google Plus of any liability. Winner will be contacted by email 48 hours after the giveaway ends.

blueline

Guest Post-Brennan Lanter

brennan lanter (1 of 1)

I am a natural light, lifestyle photographer based in Chesapeake, VA. I spend my days with my 3 “littles” searching for the mundane moments I can make extraordinary through my lens (es!) When I’m not behind the camera, I consider a trip to Target alone a major thrill! Website | Facebook | Pinterest

*This post contains affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you purchase something and support Click it Up a Notch.

193 Comments
  • October 9, 2013 at 11:06 AM

    Macro photography is soooo intriguing!!! I love love love my flower pictures but feel that they would be so much more incredible being able to macro shoot them!!!

  • Laura
    October 9, 2013 at 11:06 AM

    I love taking close-up pictures of flowers or other things outside. This is very exciting, I never knew macro filters existed!

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:08 AM

    I would shoot details of my son working on his art, and flowers. And the pictures you shared are beautiful and inspiring to try something new.

  • Ali
    October 9, 2013 at 11:09 AM

    I would take pictures in “Star Wars Town” – the playroom my husband and daughter have dedicated to all things Star Wars!

  • Tina T
    October 9, 2013 at 11:10 AM

    My toddlers little curls and my baby’s little toes.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:13 AM

    would love to take macro photos of flowers

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:15 AM

    Bugs, worms, flowers, leaves… all the ‘fun’ stuff my boys like to find in my backyard & on walks. :)

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:19 AM

    So many things! Flowers, leaves, my daughters toys, you name it! I’ll try it!

  • Jenni
    October 9, 2013 at 11:19 AM

    I’d love to try taking images of a babies face, feet and hands

  • Wendy Adams
    October 9, 2013 at 11:20 AM

    OH my everything!. I love to take pictures of food. But my 50 mm lens won’t let me get so close as you know. I would also photography little toes and little fingers!

  • Rachel
    October 9, 2013 at 11:24 AM

    I would shoot every day things–I find it very fulfilling to find beauty in everyday, often overlooked items.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:30 AM

    Macro opens up a whole new world. Being able to photograph objects that you see in every day situations in such a up close form will give the viewer a different perspective of the world around them. For example a blade of grass. If you were to shoot it you would see the little hairs and maybe if you are in luck a critter that lives there.

    Thank you for the opportunity

  • Carrie
    October 9, 2013 at 11:30 AM

    I love to take pictures of flowers, the fall colors. I woiuld love to use A Micro filter on my next trip to Walt Disney World.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:32 AM

    I would use these macro filters to photograph my new baby due to arrive on Halloween! :) It will be my very first newborn shoot, and I am excited to meet my new addition and photography him or her! :)

  • cindy w
    October 9, 2013 at 11:32 AM

    my children and animals and flowers

  • Jennifer W
    October 9, 2013 at 11:33 AM

    I would love to use a macro filter to take images of my cat’s eyes and nose. Something I just haven’t been able to do with my 50mm.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:34 AM

    I’d love the filters to take detail shots of my newborns. Squishy lips, soft cheeks and tiny toes!!

  • Rachele
    October 9, 2013 at 11:35 AM

    I would love a set of macro filters. I would use them for many things but most def on my newborns to capture those adorable features that change so quickly!

  • Kim
    October 9, 2013 at 11:35 AM

    Everything ;). Flowers, insects, etc…

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:39 AM

    I would use it for anything and everything!

  • Tina
    October 9, 2013 at 11:41 AM

    my daughters eyelashes they are gorgeous also butterflys, lady bugs and anything small that catches my eye :)

  • amy larsen
    October 9, 2013 at 11:41 AM

    I think flowers and plants mostly but def. close up of my babies features too. My son just lost his first tooth! That would have been cool!

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:43 AM

    We are expecting in April, so I’d def use those on our little bundle of joy.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:43 AM

    Honestly, I don’t know! Probably flowers and things like that. I’m always trying to get a little closer to really capture the detail and maybe this will be the thing that I need.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:44 AM

    Love these! I’d use them to photograph my quilting, and I love shooting architectural details.
    Thanks for the giveaway!
    Hugs & Blessings …

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:45 AM

    Loved the macro lesson. I would love to win a set of these! I would use them for my baby shoots to get greater details of their eyelashes, fingers, toes.

  • Bree
    October 9, 2013 at 11:49 AM

    If I could get my boys to sit still maybe some details of their AMAZING eyelashes ;) However, that may take some time and practice. Maybe Ill start with my favorite flowers PEONIES!! :)

  • Bethany
    October 9, 2013 at 11:52 AM

    I loved these…and the images you shared. I think I would begin using these with my son’s Lego. He spends hours creating masterpieces out of Lego. As my children grow up faster and faster each year (I know it is not really that way-just seems it to this mom), I would like to document the passions they have in art, Lego, outdoors, and dolls. Thanks for the great lesson and the give away!

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:53 AM

    Oh, what wouldn’t I photograph with a macro filter! Just the other day, I wrote a blog post on what seems like the million of spiders that have made my front porch home. I think I’d start with them… and then move on to torture my toddler mercilessly. ;D

  • Basia Gass
    October 9, 2013 at 11:55 AM

    All the beautiful flowers in my new yard!

  • Laura S
    October 9, 2013 at 11:57 AM

    I would photograph my wedding ring. Our wedding photographer didn’t get very good macro photos and I don’t have any that show off that classic “rings together” image.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:59 AM

    I would take photos of insides of flowers. :D

  • Jess Z.
    October 9, 2013 at 12:02 PM

    I would photograph my little girl’s chubby hands (knuckle dimples to be precise), and also my son’s Legos or actually, his flashlight since he doesn’t seem to go anywhere without it right now.

  • Jenni
    October 9, 2013 at 12:06 PM

    Oops I can’t enter (which I already did, as I’m Australian)

  • carrie Cervantez
    October 9, 2013 at 12:11 PM

    Flowers and plants <3 love them

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:28 PM

    I’m a wedding & lifestyle photographer and I’d love to get my hands on these awesome filters to capture ring and other fun detail shots!

  • Kat
    October 9, 2013 at 12:37 PM

    baby toes. baby nose. baby ears. really close (sorry had to rhyme)

  • debbie l
    October 9, 2013 at 12:38 PM

    would love to experiment with these on grandchildren, flowers, puppies, there is no limit!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:42 PM

    I would LOVE to photograph still, non-moving, very asleep baby details! haha I’ve been dying to try macros!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:43 PM

    I would probably take lots of pictures of flowers and little details of just daily life!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:45 PM

    I’d use them for some flower macros. I’m not sure how good I’ll be, but I love to try new things!

  • amber
    October 9, 2013 at 12:48 PM

    baby details! i want one!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:53 PM

    I would love to get some newborn toes with these!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:53 PM

    I would love to get some newborn toes with these!

  • October 9, 2013 at 12:55 PM

    I would love to use these for a newborn shoot!! :-)

  • Leslie
    October 9, 2013 at 12:56 PM

    Nature! I am always photographing leaves, flowers, and other things in nature. These would be great!

  • Valerie
    October 9, 2013 at 1:01 PM

    OMG. The baby details I could photograph with these! Eyelashes! Toes! Gah!

  • Joey
    October 9, 2013 at 1:02 PM

    I really love these and the fact i can just screw on my lens. i will have to check the sizes i have. I have a macro lens that was a gift but i find it almost too cumbersome. These seem just right.

  • October 9, 2013 at 1:12 PM

    I would love to photograph a newborn session with a macro filter. Those little baby eyelashes and toes get me every time!

  • Carol Smith
    October 9, 2013 at 1:14 PM

    I would shoot bugs (stink bugs ) ;)

  • Marybeth
    October 9, 2013 at 1:19 PM

    Awesome! I want to try out macro but not commit to a macro lens!! I wouldn’t even know where to start!!! Food, flowers, random bugs, jewelry! It opens up a whole new world!!!

  • October 9, 2013 at 1:39 PM

    You did a superb job taking photos and with this post. If the filters are 52mm and you want to use it with your 62mm Amazon has step-up rings. I purchased several so I can use these filters with several of my lenses. I love them and they are a great price for what you get. Several of my older post with Litchen I used these filters.

    Great informative post.

    • Brennan
      October 9, 2013 at 5:29 PM

      Thanks so much for that info, Tammy! I had no idea the step-up rings existed–I’m off to check them out!

      • October 11, 2013 at 10:29 AM

        Yes, there are step-up and step-down rings for just this reason so you don’t have to buy so many filters to fit each lens. I have a lens that takes a 72mm filter and the macro filters are 58mm. I got a step down ring, on one side that will screw onto the camera is 72mm and then the front side is 58 so I can screw on the filters. Yes, you will get some vignetting but once you are close up, you don’t see it. The rings also help as I have a rotating polarizer filter, very expensive one and did not want to have to buy several for each lens. My filter is 68mm so I purchased several step-up or down rings.
        Thanks for a very informative site you have here. We are always constantly learning.

  • October 9, 2013 at 1:42 PM

    Oh, one more thing, yes, a tripod is a must.

  • Tracy
    October 9, 2013 at 1:56 PM

    Flowers, my kids, my dog? I’m not really sure! I would love a set of these to play with! Great post!

  • October 9, 2013 at 1:56 PM

    I would love to take pictures of fallen leaves this autumn

  • Sri
    October 9, 2013 at 1:59 PM
    • Brennan
      October 9, 2013 at 5:31 PM

      According to the specifications listed on Canon’s website-that lens is a 52mm wide lens-so the 58mm filters would be too large for that particular lens:( You’d need a 52mm set of filters.

    • October 11, 2013 at 10:35 AM

      Sri, you can get a step up ring, Amazon has them for just a few dollars, you would need 50-58mm step up ring, the ring has threading on one side to screw onto your camera lens then the front side will house the 58mm filters.

  • October 9, 2013 at 2:19 PM

    I would use these filters for photographing every little detail of my son’s adorable face :)

  • October 9, 2013 at 2:29 PM

    Again, this a truly awesome article Brennan and thank you sooooo much for including me and a link to my work in it! You have some amazing images! Can’t wait to see more from you friend =)

  • October 9, 2013 at 2:35 PM

    I would love to try these on my next newborn or even in our garden! And of course my daughter!

  • Laurie J.
    October 9, 2013 at 2:36 PM

    I’d use these filters for nature shots

  • Jen
    October 9, 2013 at 2:42 PM

    I would probably start by using the macro lens to add awesome closeups of my crochet work for my etsy site.

  • dianne
    October 9, 2013 at 2:46 PM

    bugs, flowers, jewelry, and whatever else I can find to point my camera at,

  • rachel
    October 9, 2013 at 2:46 PM

    i would use these babies to photograph anything still enough to capture, hopefully including my babies. :) great post!!

  • Kristi
    October 9, 2013 at 3:13 PM

    Would love to photography puppy dog tails and soft puppy ears!

  • October 9, 2013 at 3:22 PM

    I would use these on any bright, colorful small object.

  • Shelby
    October 9, 2013 at 3:35 PM

    I would use these lenses to capture close up all the beauty in the forest

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:03 PM

    I would SO love to win these filters! I live in San Diego and the beach is my favorite spot! I would use the macro filters to get up close and personal in my favorite tide pools! Starfish anyone?

  • Sarah
    October 9, 2013 at 4:04 PM

    I think the main thing I would love to photograph is nature. It is amazing how much detail and beauty there in ordinary things, we are just too far away to really enjoy them!

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:18 PM

    I love eyelashes but I think I would take photos of my kids toys. Maybe with them holding the toy.

  • Diane C.
    October 9, 2013 at 4:21 PM

    I would first photograph my grandmother’s beautiful old jewelry. It was such a part of her!

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:31 PM

    EVERYTHING!!! Seriously this post came in the nick of time! I am currently shopping for a lens and I really wanted to get a macro, however all I have right now are kit lenses and really thought I should maybe get something a little more versatile. These will make me happy on both accounts!! :)

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:36 PM

    I would love to shoot some baby eyelashes!

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:43 PM

    I’d do a little Life around here in my house and photograph marcos that I usually wouldn’t. Being my baby girl can’t be outdoors as she’s a preemie I would love to get creative inside! Thanks for the chance.

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:43 PM

    I would love to take photos of my 2 year old’s curls, her toys and her little toes :) Love macro photography but I’ve only shot flowers that close. I would love to shoot more personal photos in the macro style :)

  • Sarah davis
    October 9, 2013 at 4:48 PM

    I’m just getting started in my photography, having this lens would help me to get better shots of my main subject, my 3 month old little boy :)

  • October 9, 2013 at 4:49 PM

    I would use them to take macro photos of my leather goods… :)

  • October 9, 2013 at 5:12 PM

    I would probably try them out on some fun jewelry, my kids fun boy toys and some bugs and flowers. Thank you!

  • Janet
    October 9, 2013 at 5:56 PM

    Spider webs, I would try shooting dew covered spider webs.

  • Jessica
    October 9, 2013 at 6:24 PM

    Food!

  • October 9, 2013 at 6:43 PM

    I would most likely use the Macro lenses for photographing flowers and critters :)

  • Mandy
    October 9, 2013 at 6:49 PM

    I would love to photograph one of the macro Spider shots you see of their eyes, I don’t like spiders but theses macro shots make them look cute.

  • Sue
    October 9, 2013 at 7:12 PM

    food, flowers, babies, many things!

  • Valerie
    October 9, 2013 at 7:16 PM

    I would love to take pictures of all the little details of my daughter’s life.

  • Amy Busa
    October 9, 2013 at 7:28 PM

    I would take pics of flowers, my son’s tennis racket and a tennis ball, his trumpet, and many other everyday items in our home in a whole new way.

  • October 9, 2013 at 7:38 PM

    How awesome is this! I would have to practice my ring shots for sure!

  • Jessica
    October 9, 2013 at 8:28 PM

    I would take pictures of food (other stuff too tho)!

  • Robin
    October 9, 2013 at 9:37 PM

    My baby’s curls

  • October 9, 2013 at 9:58 PM

    I would take pictures of everyday details that we often over look.

  • Jody Rollins
    October 9, 2013 at 10:22 PM

    I would photography my baby girl’s eyelashes in macro…so pretty :-)

  • October 9, 2013 at 10:37 PM

    Flowers, bugs, and ring shots!!

  • October 9, 2013 at 10:48 PM

    I would photograph fall leaves with a macro filter!

  • October 9, 2013 at 10:51 PM

    I would love to win the lens, because I like to add a little abstract in my work. I enjoy doing layouts with my session or when I’m photographing our day. So it would be neat to be able to get closer to my son’s toys or things he is doing. I’d like to capture my son’s eyelashes.

  • Desiree Gray
    October 9, 2013 at 10:55 PM

    I think that I would photograph a few of my son’s toys first as I doubt he’ll stay still long enough for me to take a photo of him, perhaps if he was sleeping.

  • October 9, 2013 at 11:20 PM

    I love love love macro photography! So many seemingly ordinary things to be rediscovered! Floral macro has to be my favorite though. It’s almost like flower voyeurism. Just something so sensual about it…

    I would definitely love to try out some macro filters. And at that price even a starving artist like myself could work with that! ;-)

  • Cheri
    October 9, 2013 at 11:38 PM

    I’ve been wanting a way to get those juicy newborn closeups, but can’t afford a full-on macro lens. This would be the perfect solutioN!

  • Hannah
    October 9, 2013 at 11:45 PM

    I would love to be able to take close-ups of flowers without a macro lens ($$$). Also, I love close-ups of the little details in portraits (a baby’s toes, a curl, eyes, etc.)!

  • Whitney Conley
    October 10, 2013 at 1:31 AM

    I would photograph some of my jewelry!

  • October 10, 2013 at 2:01 AM

    SUPER FUN! I really want one! I’d photograph flowers!!

  • October 10, 2013 at 3:58 AM

    I would take photos of my children, flowers, my cat’s nose and my craft creations :)

  • Shannon
    October 10, 2013 at 8:44 AM

    I would use the macro filters for my newborn photography and just to explore the macro world.

  • jill
    October 10, 2013 at 8:58 AM

    baby toes, eyelashes, etc! love all little baby parts!

  • October 10, 2013 at 9:00 AM

    I think I will shot flowers, beauties… I will play with bokeh!

  • Teresa
    October 10, 2013 at 12:50 PM

    My kids’ eyelashes!

  • Carrie
    October 10, 2013 at 1:08 PM

    Nature! I love the intricate patters and detail found in leaves, flowers, bark etc.

  • October 10, 2013 at 4:56 PM

    I’d love to get really great shots of food for my blog. Or my critters, of course. I know the internet needs more kitty pictures. ;)

  • October 10, 2013 at 7:10 PM

    We just got a new puppy and I’d love to capture all the details of him- his eyes, wet nose, etc with the macro filters!

  • Trace
    October 10, 2013 at 11:16 PM

    I would definitely take macro shots of flowers and with winter approaching I would capture snowflakes & icicles.

  • October 11, 2013 at 9:17 AM

    Thanks for the tips. For that price it definitely seems like something worth experimenting with.

  • alesha Bloom
    October 11, 2013 at 3:30 PM

    I would take macro shots of flowers and bugs.

  • Jennifer Tait
    October 11, 2013 at 5:47 PM

    Flowers and leaves and probably just about everything.

  • Tonya T.
    October 11, 2013 at 5:47 PM

    When my husband brings me flowers, I love to capture each tiny detail because they never last long enough!

  • October 11, 2013 at 5:49 PM

    I would love to capture my daughters’ eyelashes. I can never stop staring at them.

  • Amy H
    October 11, 2013 at 5:51 PM

    My husband makes miniatures & has been wanting some great photos of them for his website. He would be stoked! Plus there are a million things I would do with them!

  • Lisa
    October 11, 2013 at 5:52 PM

    I would love to take photos of my daughters eyelashes (to die for) and her toys.

  • Gayle Shrader
    October 11, 2013 at 5:53 PM

    would love to use these macro filters to photograph a newborns cute little lips, eyes, ears, fingers, toes, etc!! Thanks for the chance!

  • October 11, 2013 at 5:55 PM

    I LOVE macro! I would use it for nature photography :)

  • Amanda
    October 11, 2013 at 5:55 PM

    I would like to get pictures of all the little toddler and baby details of my two boys.

  • October 11, 2013 at 5:56 PM

    I would love to photograph newborns beautiful details!

  • Amy Schwartz
    October 11, 2013 at 5:57 PM

    I love macro photography and would use these lenses to shoot nature in our nearby woods. It’s fall in Wisconsin and so beautiful!

  • Amanda
    October 11, 2013 at 5:58 PM

    I’m not really sure what I would yet but I know I would have a lot of fun playing with these!

  • Laura
    October 11, 2013 at 5:58 PM

    New baby fingers and toes :)

  • Heather
    October 11, 2013 at 6:07 PM

    Oh, I would photograph so many things that I just can not get the detail with that I would love! (Flowers, babies, bugs, toes, etc.)

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:09 PM

    I would start photographing all the details about my 2 little boys, so I can remember those details forever. I’m also an aspiring photographer. I started out only wanting to do landscape, but have moved into also photographing children. I’d love to start on newborns and capture the newness of them, up close, for other mommies and daddies to hold on to as they’re brand new baby changes-and they do change quickly!

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:10 PM

    oh how I love creating beautiful flower photos!! Since it’s the start of the season where it’s getting chilly…I’m working on food and product photography!! Macro photography is my absolute FUN passion!! Very exciting to capture creative things people don’t see until they see my photo!

  • katie kitterman
    October 11, 2013 at 6:10 PM

    my new son to get all his little features!

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:10 PM

    Oh, and my soon to be 5 year old LOVES bugs, so I’d love to get some close up shots of bugs for him to look at, and see all the fine details of them :)

  • Ashley U
    October 11, 2013 at 6:13 PM

    I would take pictures of everything in nature! And food! I love how everything looks close up!

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:13 PM

    I would probably photography almost anything with this set of macro filters, I love turning my 50mm lens around to play with macro photos.

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:13 PM

    I would experiment with everything! Maybe starting with my kittie whiskers :)

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:15 PM

    I would use my macros to find the small things in the world and celebrate them.

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:17 PM

    I would love to get my niece’s eyelashes while she’s sleeping!!

  • rene hermosillo
    October 11, 2013 at 6:17 PM

    Ooh soo many things!! Bugs/insects, flowers, ice, snow…..

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:20 PM

    I would love to learn the art of macro photography. I love the idea of getting a new lens and shooting everything and seeing what it looks like up close. No everything looks the same with a different eye.

  • Kim
    October 11, 2013 at 6:33 PM

    Flowers, my granddaughter, snowflakes, bugs…..

  • Vanessa
    October 11, 2013 at 6:36 PM

    I would love to shoot bugs and my boy’s legos.

  • Spring K.
    October 11, 2013 at 6:40 PM

    I’m very interested in macro photography and learning more about it! I would love to photograph close up details of my daughter (my muse) and beautiful plants and insects in my backyard! Thanks for the opportunity to win this great giveaway!

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:40 PM

    Everything! But particularly some food pictures of some recipes I make :)

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:41 PM

    If I won the macro filters I would love to learn to take macro detail shots of newborn babies! Thank you for the post and giveaway!

  • Cinda
    October 11, 2013 at 6:46 PM

    Everything….I’d also do macro’s on my grandbabies fingers, toes, eyelashes. Also the infinite amount of bugs outside..

  • Kristen
    October 11, 2013 at 6:47 PM

    I would try to shoot flowers

  • October 11, 2013 at 6:59 PM

    I love EVERYTHING about my daughters toys so I think I would mess around with capturing some of their favorites and then hang the art on their playroom wall!!!!

  • Jennifer Lohrke
    October 11, 2013 at 6:59 PM

    I would shoot everything that I possible could!

  • Debra
    October 11, 2013 at 7:09 PM

    I would use the Macro lense to shoot my beand new grandbaby! The precious details of the miracle of life! Plus flowers, daughter’s cupcake/cake business, my son’s punk rock band, my butterfly garden, nature in fall, winter, spring & summer! I certaintly could go on & on but I think by now you know I would use them! Yippee!

  • October 11, 2013 at 7:11 PM

    I’d practice on flowers in my backyard until my little grandchild is born in Dec. Then I’d be all over shooting little toes, fingers, nose, ears…

  • Tiffany Martin
    October 11, 2013 at 7:12 PM

    With these filters, I would shoot close ups of beautiful things wedding rings, flowers, etc, as well as my photo documentation of being a Type 1 Diabetic since I was 7. It would be great to get a close up of insulin bottles and the things I use on a daily basis to share the journey with others. :)

  • October 11, 2013 at 7:17 PM

    I’d photograph my son’s eyelashes! They are so long and beautiful! Thanks!

  • christina
    October 11, 2013 at 7:21 PM

    Babies

  • Erica W
    October 11, 2013 at 7:22 PM

    I’d photograph the tiny details of all the kids’ toys laying around here.

  • NoVATwins
    October 11, 2013 at 7:28 PM

    I’d photograph the minute details of my twins: fingers, hands, dimpled elbows, eyelashes, pert little noses and more!

  • Raquel N.
    October 11, 2013 at 7:36 PM

    Id photograph water. Droplets to be exact. My 11 year old son has Asperger’s and is intrigued and relaxed by water droplets so to get some nice macro photos up in his room of all kinds of droplets would be amazing for him,

  • October 11, 2013 at 7:51 PM

    I would use the lens to capture butterflies, nature, flowers, and close ups of my lil’ rascals. ;) This is such a neat addition for anyone who wants to have fun with photography. Thanks for sharing! blessings

  • kathleen
    October 11, 2013 at 7:55 PM

    Wow, not sure what I would shoot, probably everything in my sight! Thanks for the great tutorial and opportunity!

  • Heather
    October 11, 2013 at 7:56 PM

    I would take my kids to Butterfly Wonderland and have a blast with these!

  • Andrea
    October 11, 2013 at 8:15 PM

    Bugs for sure! I recently moved to the southern US and there are amazing bugs everywhere.

  • Cathy
    October 11, 2013 at 8:18 PM

    I’d use it to photograph the Texas bluebonnets in the spring!

  • Clare
    October 11, 2013 at 8:22 PM

    So generous! I’ve been wanting a macro lens for a while & this would be a great way to play around and see if I like macro photography. I’d love to photograph tiny toes, fingers, lashes, lips, etc., on all the sweet newborns I photograph. Thanks for the opportunity. <3

  • Holly
    October 11, 2013 at 8:28 PM

    I would photograph details of my little ones doing things they enjoy.

  • Kami
    October 11, 2013 at 8:54 PM

    I would love to try out Macro. I would shoot flowers, anything nature, little fingers and toes, and probably just about anything I see, for fun!

  • October 11, 2013 at 9:00 PM

    I would photograph the tiny details of my little girls doing the things that they love :-)

  • Katie
    October 11, 2013 at 9:11 PM

    I love the idea of the macro in the Bible! And the ringlet was amazing!

  • Caitlin Knealing
    October 11, 2013 at 9:57 PM

    I would take pictures of flowers and other things found in nature!

  • Rosalie
    October 11, 2013 at 10:08 PM

    These filters look amazing. A macro lens is out of reach but these ..perfect. I take a lot of nature photos ,so this would make some of the shots I try to get much easier. Tiny little blooms..fungus..leaves..dew drops.. ground webs…anything small ..I am constantly shooting.I do love the pencil eraser shot.

  • Johanna U
    October 11, 2013 at 10:38 PM

    I would photograph those cute little fingers and toes.

  • Jean Alston
    October 11, 2013 at 10:43 PM

    I would photograph flowers.

  • Claudia
    October 11, 2013 at 10:48 PM

    I would photography as much as I could!! I would start with the colorful fall leaves in my beautiful Smoky Mountains.

  • Chrystal
    October 11, 2013 at 11:07 PM

    I would love to start taking macro pics of all the bugs my daughter collects.

  • Sarah Redmond
    October 11, 2013 at 11:58 PM

    I was looking at these on Amazon after I read your article. I didn’t even realize you were having a draw for them. I would love to experiment with macro filters to improve my photography and add a whole new element to my photos. If I don’t win them, I will probably still purchase them!

  • October 12, 2013 at 11:20 AM

    Wow! Such a great article! Thanks for sharing your experience!

  • Tina P.
    October 15, 2013 at 2:55 PM

    I purchased these lenses for my Nikon 3200. I was able to get the camera to autofocus with the 1+ and 2+, but not the others. It appeared that the camera had focused but it would not allow me to take a picture. Any suggestions? Any idea what I am doing incorrectly.

    • Brennan
      October 17, 2013 at 7:32 PM

      Hi Tina! Sometimes it is just trial and error with the filters! Can you try switching to manual focus? Also make sure there is plenty of light available when you start getting into the higher numbered filters–especially when you’re on a 3200….an abundance of light will really help the chances of autofocus working. I hope that helps!!

  • June 19, 2014 at 9:20 AM

    Thanks so much for this very valuable article. I just purchased my macro filters…can’t wait to try it out.

  • mie
    July 5, 2014 at 8:47 AM

    does a close up filter 10+ 58mm fit to my canon eos 50mm 1.4 lens?
    or is 52 mm the right fit?
    im ordering from this site tho:
    http://www.kamda.se/close-up10-filter-o52-mm

  • September 7, 2014 at 4:22 AM

    Nature photography is my favorite type of photography. I am at a point in life where I have to tripod everything due to my hands shaking. Having to use a tripod limits me, especially if I’m chasing a butterfly (rest in peace, Nikon!)…but it is something that I am learning to work around.

    I now have a Canon DSLR and my favorite lens is my 50mm macro lens. I use it for pretty much everything. :)

    I have a similar (if not the same!) set of filters. However, I have had the same problem of everything turning out blurry with the close-up filters. I am glad that I read your tip about cranking up the aperture. I will try that next time. I also have a set of close-up adapters that attach on the body side of the lens. I haven’t figured those out yet. :/

    Have a great day!

    Your sis in Christ,
    Suz

  • Katie
    September 19, 2014 at 10:40 PM

    Thank you so much for this article! There have been several times in the last week where I’ve thought to myself how nice it would be to have a macro lens. This will be a great way to try it out!

  • November 9, 2014 at 3:15 AM

    I have a 58mm size lens I would love to try! I want to play!!!

  • Ajeeth
    April 13, 2015 at 5:56 AM

    I have a 50 mm 1.8 prime and a kit lens 18-105. I am confused on deciding whether to buy a macro for prime or kit lens. Does it make any difference in quality? Please advise.

  • Macy
    July 11, 2015 at 7:17 AM

    Dear Courtney,
    following your suggestion I bought on Amazon 67 mm. macro lens for my Canon 500D which has 18-135 f/3,5 – 5,6 default lens.
    I’ve got this kit but once I try to fit it on my machine, it perfectly fits the size but it won’t stick to it, it doesn’t stay screwed and for this reason my camera’s auto focus doesn’t work. Is there in your opinion anyhing I can do about it? Waiting gratefully for your opinion.

    • July 23, 2015 at 10:33 AM

      That is odd. I would contact the manufacturer of the filters and see if there is something you need to do to make sure it stays on your lens.

  • Jen
    August 21, 2015 at 7:09 AM

    Hi Courtney,
    I am just starting to appreciate macro photography, I did not realize I could get these macro filters :) Also, I always have problems with focusing and I realize that a lower aperture is needed to get the most details, but if you do this, you sacrifice a lot of light… do you use flash with macro shots, or do you just move your subjects to a setup with a lot of natural light?

    Thank you

    • August 26, 2015 at 6:43 PM

      I would move my subjects closer to the light or raise my ISO as I don’t use flash.

  • kelly polizzi
    February 6, 2016 at 12:56 PM

    I no longer own any of my lens caps! Is there any other way to find out the size to purchase? I have a canon 50 1.4 mm and canon 35mm

    • February 9, 2016 at 9:49 AM

      You can always google the lens you have to figure out the lens cap size :)

  • Cindy
    May 7, 2016 at 12:17 PM

    Thanks for all this helpful information.I just bought 3 Hoya filters #1 #2 & #4 plus a Hoya Macro close up,was about ready to give up but I will try again and again after reading this .

  • julie
    June 3, 2016 at 1:42 PM

    Thanks for this article. I just bought a set of macro filters and experimented with the 10+ filter on my Nikon D90 with 18-105mm lens. I was disappointed that my photos look out of focus and don’t capture the detail I was hoping for, and your article helps by explaining that it is easy to get out of focus, and that making lots of mistakes is ok. I tried taking photos of waterlilies and other flowers.

  • Augustin
    January 14, 2017 at 10:06 PM

    Can macro len filter be used to magnify a distant object, such as birds?

  • Mark
    January 28, 2017 at 5:43 PM

    I was asked to take wedding photography and I was considering macro filter to photograph rings and other detail shots. I am not sure which lens to use the filter either the 35mm or 85mm? Any suggestions?

  • Lena almshaikhi
    March 30, 2017 at 9:49 AM

    i love this! Keep going!

  • Lily Hack
    March 24, 2019 at 9:17 PM

    Hi I am happy and glad to have read this webight

  • Shelly
    September 24, 2019 at 1:12 PM

    Love this article and example photos!! Wasn’t aware of macro filters. So excited to try them out!!! Thanks for sharing! :-)

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