Macro details: showing texture and craftsmanship
Close-up detail shots prove quality. Learn macro technique for textures, materials and handmade products.
Customers cannot touch products online. Detail shots let them see quality: the grain of leather, the weave of a hammock, the finish of a watch.
Lenses
A dedicated macro like the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 reaches 1:1 magnification. Extension tubes or close-up filters are cheaper alternatives.
Depth of field
At close distances, even f/8 gives very little depth. Use f/8 to f/16, or focus stack several images for full sharpness.
Light for texture
Low-angle side light reveals texture. A small LED or flash skimming across the surface makes weaves, stitching and carving pop.
Stability
Tripod, remote or timer, and manual focus using magnification in the viewfinder. Move the camera slightly with a focusing rail or by sliding the tripod.
What to photograph
- Materials and textures
- Stitching, seams and joinery
- Logos, engravings and stamps
- Moving parts and mechanisms
- Handmade marks that show craft
Artisans of Yucatán
Hammock weaving, henequen crafts, filigree jewelry and embroidery look spectacular in macro and tell the story of the artisan’s hands.
Next: E-commerce product photo checklist: the images every listing needs
