Macro photography is defined as the close-up photography of objects that are typically very small. “True” macro is done at 1:1 ratio, meaning that the object is represented on your sensor at the same size as real life. I am more flexible with my definition and consider 2:1 or closer to be macro photography.

Read more: 7 Best Macro Photography Tips for Creative Photos

You don’t! There are very affordable macro lenses out there, like the Lensbaby Velvet which captures 2:1 macro. You can also try macro filters or extension tubes. You can also try reverse free lensing, which allows you to shoot macro photography without a macro lens.

Definitely not! I never use a tripod, and I rarely use artificial light. You can certainly be a macro minimalist, if you choose!

Auto-focus is simply not reliable enough when working at close distances and with narrow depth-of-field. Manual focus can take some practice if you aren’t used to it – keep trying and don’t give up! Don’t forget that with focus you want to make sure you are using a smaller f-stop to give you more room to nail your focus.

This is the benefit of not using a tripod – you’re free to move around and try all different angles and compositions. One of the great things about macro photography is that you don’t need anyone else to participate, so no one is rushing you to take their photo. Take your time and slow down.

Color can be a really powerful element in your images. Be thoughtful about your vision and how you use color. I love using complimentary color schemes in my macro images.

With macro photography, we are very close to our subjects and we often have a long focal length, and these factors lead us to have a very narrow depth-of-field. Make sure your depth looks intentional. Think about exactly how much of your subject you want to be in focus, and choose your aperture and distance accordingly.