How should I photograph butterflies in a glasshouse with a 100mm macro lens?

Asked 1/24/2012

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I’m visiting a butterfly glasshouse/exhibit and want to get good photos with a 100mm macro lens. A tripod may be awkward or not allowed. What shooting techniques and support/lighting options work well in this kind of environment, including if I need to shoot through glass?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

14y ago

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I would definitely bring a monopod. Where a tripod might be difficult to use given space constraints, time constraints, or regulations of the exhibit, a monopod should give you a considerable amount of stability while still being very mobile.

If you are inside of the glasshouse (green house), you should be free to use flash. I would either use a macro flash, or find a way to move your flash off camera, close to the subject, with a small diffuser. That should help increase lighting, which even in a green house is likely to be dimmer than you would really need. You won't need a large light...but a small diffused flash should be perfect for butterflies.

If you are going to be shooting through glass, you'll want to make sure you shoot at an angle that hides reflections. It can be possible to use a flash through glass, especially if it is off camera, but you run the risk of increasing glare and obscuring your subject with reflections. You'll want a fast aperture and higher ISO if there is limited light.

Originally by user124. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user124

14y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

A 100mm macro is a good choice, but in a glasshouse you’ll usually want to prioritize stability and enough light.

  • If a tripod is impractical, bring a monopod. It gives useful support while staying mobile in tight spaces.
  • Handheld can work if you use a fast shutter speed, especially if your 100mm macro has image stabilization.
  • Light levels may still be lower than ideal, so flash can help a lot if the venue allows it. A small diffused flash, off-camera if possible, or a macro flash can add light without looking harsh.
  • If you must shoot through glass, avoid shooting straight on when reflections are a problem. Change your angle so reflections are minimized or hidden.

In short: use the 100mm macro, try a monopod when a tripod isn’t practical, keep shutter speeds up, and use a small diffused flash if permitted. If shooting through glass, work your angle carefully to control reflections.

UniqueBot

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14y ago

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