Introduction
In the world of photography, there are always new techniques to discover and explore. One such technique that has gained popularity is reverse ring macro (RRM). Captivating images that differ from the norm are what many photographers aspire to create. Colors, composition, and focus have the power to transform the way we perceive the world through photography. RRM offers photographers the opportunity to push the boundaries of their creativity and capture unique and captivating images.
Photographer Imran Ahmad has always been fascinated by macro photography, where minuscule subjects are captured in exquisite detail. Starting with the use of macro lenses on his DSLR, his passion for capturing smaller details led him to explore the use of diopters for increased magnification. However, he found himself yearning for even greater magnification and a more distinctive look to his images. This desire for more led him to discover the world of reverse ring macro.
What is Reverse Ring Macro?
Reverse ring macro photography didn’t originate as a creative technique but rather as an affordable way to experiment with macro photography. For photographers who do not wish to invest hundreds of dollars in a dedicated macro lens, a reverse ring offers a relatively cheap solution. By mounting a lens in reverse, small subjects can be captured at life size (true macro) or even larger from a much closer focusing distance.
The exact mechanics behind how reversing a lens achieves greater magnification are complex, but put simply, normally mounted lenses focus on larger and more distant subjects, reducing their size when recorded on the camera sensor. However, when a lens is reversed, small subjects are captured at a 1:1 ratio or even larger, allowing photographers to capture minute details that are often missed by the naked eye.
A popular lens choice for reverse ring macro is the 50mm lens, which produces a 1:1 ratio, considered true macro. Wider focal length lenses, such as kit lenses, can achieve even higher ratios, reaching 4:1.
One interesting aspect of using a reversed lens for macro photography is the unique bokeh effect that is achieved. Bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image. By reversing the lens, photographers can not only achieve magnification but also create a distinct bokeh effect that adds visual appeal to their photographs.
Reverse Ring Macro in Underwater Photography
Photographing super-macro subjects underwater can be an expensive endeavor, significantly increasing the cost of equipment required. This is where the appeal of using a reverse ring setup for underwater photography becomes evident. A full super-macro setup, including a 105mm macro lens, a corresponding port, and an external macro diopter, can easily cost upwards of $2,000. However, by investing in a simple reverse ring adapter for the kit lens that many photographers already own, this additional expense can be avoided.
It is important to note that reverse ring macro should not be the first experience for a photographer in capturing small subjects underwater. Reversing a lens introduces limitations, such as the loss of autofocus, aperture control, and metering, as there is no electrical connection between the lens and the camera body. However, despite these restrictions, reverse ring macro offers a unique and captivating way to photograph super-macro subjects underwater.
The Benefits of Reverse Ring Macro Underwater Photography
Although the loss of control over aperture and autofocus may initially seem like a major drawback, there are significant benefits to utilizing reverse ring macro techniques underwater. Firstly, the extreme bokeh effect produced by reverse ring macro adds a sense of motion and dynamism to photographs, making them visually engaging. The creamy background created by the bokeh effect helps the subjects in the foreground stand out and captures the viewer’s attention.
Secondly, the drastically decreased working distance achieved through reverse ring macro allows photographers to get closer to their subjects. Using a reversed 18-55mm kit lens, photographers can focus at a distance of less than two inches from the subject. This close proximity ensures that even the tiniest super-macro subjects can fill the frame, capturing intricate details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
These advantages make reverse ring macro an exciting and rewarding technique for capturing underwater super-macro subjects. Despite the initial limitations, photographers who are willing to adapt their shooting techniques can achieve stunning and unique results.
Equipment for Reverse Ring Macro Underwater Photography
In theory, any rectilinear lens can be reversed to achieve macro magnification. However, when it comes to underwater photography, there are certain considerations to keep in mind. Underwater photographers face limitations due to port compatibility and the need for lenses that offer an ideal combination of magnification and minimum focusing distance.
Thankfully, the kit zoom lens that comes with most DSLRs checks all the boxes for underwater reverse ring macro photography. By reversing the kit lens using a reverse ring adapter, photographers can achieve a range of magnifications, from 1:1 to an impressive 4:1. Starting with a longer focal length, such as 50mm, allows photographers to work with a longer minimum focus distance before progressing to the closer two-inch focus distance achievable with shorter focal lengths.
Another recommended lens choice for underwater reverse ring macro photography is the 50mm lens. Many photographers already own a high-quality, fast 50mm lens for portrait photography on land. Underwater, these lenses offer wide apertures that can be challenging to work with due to a shallow depth of field. However, they also produce dreamy bokeh effects that add a touch of artistic flair to underwater macro photographs.
Reverse Ring Macro Underwater Photography Settings
When it comes to capturing underwater macro photographs using reverse ring techniques, certain shooting settings should be considered. The lack of control over aperture in reverse ring macro necessitates adjustments to other settings to ensure optimal results.
Aperture: Most modern lenses default to their widest aperture when not electronically connected to the camera. However, if the lens being used has a manual aperture ring, it is advisable to set it one or two stops from the minimum to enhance depth of field in the images.
ISO: Shooting with a wide or wide-open aperture typically requires a lower ISO setting to compensate for the increased light sensitivity. Usually, setting the ISO at its lowest value is a good starting point for shallow underwater conditions (above 80 feet).
Shutter Speed: To counteract the increased amount of light entering the camera through the open aperture, it is necessary to use a fast shutter speed. If using strobes, it is advisable to set the shutter speed near the maximum sync speed. However, to fully utilize continuous lighting, which allows for faster continuous shooting rates, a faster shutter speed is recommended.
These settings create a balance of light, ISO, and aperture that allows photographers to capture stunning super-macro images with reverse ring macro techniques.
Underwater Reverse Ring Macro Shooting Techniques
To master reverse ring macro techniques underwater, several shooting techniques need to be employed. These techniques focus on focusing control and effectively lighting the subjects.
Focus Bracketing: One of the most significant challenges in reverse ring macro photography is achieving precise focus due to the paper-thin depth of field. With autofocus disabled when using reversed lenses, photographers must rely on a method called “focus bracketing” to capture pin-sharp images. Focus bracketing involves subtly moving the camera closer to or farther away from the subject until it appears sharp, while continuously capturing multiple images. By repeating this process, photographers can increase the chances of obtaining at least one perfectly focused image. Shooting in continuous mode further maximizes the frame rate for increased chances of capturing focused shots. Practicing focus bracketing techniques in a controlled environment such as a pool is a good way to develop proficiency before venturing into more challenging underwater scenarios.
Continuous Lighting: Utilizing a continuous light source, such as a video light, offers several advantages when shooting reverse ring macro underwater. Continuous lighting eliminates the need to wait for strobes to recharge, enabling a higher continuous shooting rate. Additionally, continuous lighting makes it easier to observe and control the positioning of shadows in real-time, given the close proximity to the subject. While powerful strobes are less critical due to ample ambient light, a video light ensures the right amount of color and contrast for optimal image quality.
Choosing the Right Subjects: As with any photographic technique, practice plays a crucial role in achieving desirable results with reverse ring macro. When starting out, it is advisable to select stationary super-macro subjects. These subjects allow photographers to focus solely on mastering focus bracketing and lighting techniques, as they minimize the possibility of distractions caused by subject movement. Common beginner subjects for reverse ring macro underwater photography include nudibranchs, small crustaceans, crustaceans, and Christmas tree worms. Once photographers become more comfortable with focusing and lighting, they can gradually progress to more challenging subjects such as juvenile fish, blennies, and cephalopods.
Underwater Reverse Ring Macro with Two Lenses
For those seeking even greater magnification and bokeh effects, the technique of stacking two lenses together can take reverse ring macro to the next level. By combining a forward-mounted lens with a reversed lens, photographers gain the ability to control aperture through the forward-mounted lens. While autofocus might not function optimally in this setup, manual focus bracketing remains necessary for capturing sharp images.
A popular configuration for stacking two lenses in reverse ring macro underwater photography involves using a 50mm lens for both the forward and reversed lenses. These lenses are connected using a “male-male macro reverse ring” and a “filter stepping ring.” However, photographers can also experiment with using a traditional macro lens as the forward lens paired with a reversed lens that has a prime focal length of 50mm or less.
An additional benefit of using this setup with adjustable aperture is the opportunity to use higher apertures, ranging from f/2.8 to f/5.6. The addition of the vignette effect resulting from more closed apertures enhances the visual appeal of the images. While this look may not suit every photographer’s style, it adds a natural framing and “fisheye” effect that makes the subject pop off the frame. When shooting at smaller apertures, compensating with slower shutter speeds or higher ISO values is crucial to maintaining well-exposed photographs.
Final Thoughts
Reverse ring macro offers photographers a unique and captivating approach to capturing underwater super-macro subjects. While it may require some adjustments in shooting techniques and equipment, the results can be truly remarkable. It is essential not to be discouraged by initial poor results, as mastering reverse ring macro takes time, practice, and experimentation.
The key to success lies in exploring different lenses, settings, and shooting techniques. By embracing the process and enjoying the journey of discovery, photographers will be amazed at the extraordinary images they can create. Reverse ring macro is a technique that pushes the limits of what is possible in underwater photography, opening up new creative horizons and offering endless possibilities for capturing the beauty of the underwater world. So, dive in and begin your own reverse ring macro adventure today!
The article is compiled and compiled by tipcamera.com
