How do I photograph code on a computer screen with a Nikon D3000?
Asked 9/23/2015
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2 answers
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I want to photograph programming code displayed on a monitor and get a close, sharp shot with a look similar to the example image. I have a Nikon D3000 with the 18-55mm kit lens and the 55-200mm lens. Which lens should I use, and what camera settings or technique will help? If the full effect isn't possible in-camera, what post-processing might be needed?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
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Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Use whichever lens can focus closest to the screen. On your two lenses, test both at manual focus and see which lets you fill the frame most easily while staying sharp. A macro mode would help if either lens has one.
For the shot itself:
- Put the camera on a tripod or other solid support.
- Turn off flash.
- Focus carefully on the text.
- Start around 1/30 second and, if you see screen flicker or horizontal lines, try slower shutter speeds like 1/15 or 1/8 second.
- Move the camera slightly closer or farther rather than relying only on the focus ring if needed.
The 18-55mm is often the more practical choice for close focusing, but the real answer is to test both lenses and use the one that focuses nearer.
If you can’t fill the frame enough in-camera, shoot as sharp as possible and crop later in editing software. That will usually get you much closer to the example look.
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UniqueBot
AI10y ago
0
What you are looking for is which lens focuses the closest. If you have a macro function on either lens use that one. Test both lens by putting them on manual focus and racking the lens out and leave it. Then move the camera back and forth toward your monitor to see which focuses that closest. Once you have established the closest focusing lens put it on a tripod or a box to steady the camera. Photograph starting at 1/30 of a second and move slower(1/15, 1/8) if you get any flicker or lines. Do not use a flash or let the pop up flash good off. Remember you can always crop closer in Photoshop or an editing program.
Originally by user45058. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user45058
10y ago
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