Herp Photography

[Skiploder]

A macro lens is a must. It allows you to take really close up shots without using zoom. Most cameras won't focus well on objects within about 18". The macro closes that distance to almost nothing depending on the macro lens used. As for camera, Pretty much any type that will accept lenses will work. DSLR's are obviously made for that sort of thing, but you can get away with spending much less than that. I use a Kodak Z730, which is really just a point-and-shoot, but it has a lens adaptor that allows me to use a macro lens. My pics aren't the best in the world, but I can get some halfway decent close ups. One of the keys is lighting. A simple light box can be used to produce a good consistant light that eliminates shadows and discoloration.

I was at a local camera store last weekend and looked at some "bridge" cameras - notably the Canon SX20 IS, the Nikon P90 and the Panasonic DMC FZ35. All have super macro modes and I was fairly impressed. Ever heard of a "bridge" camera?

Wondering how those would do. The clerk said I could bring a small snake (hoggie perhaps) and try each camera out.............

[brainman1000]

I would def. try them out first and see how they do. My camera also has a macro mode, but I found that it doesn't work very well. I'm not saying that other cameras with macro mode won't work, but definitely try them out before buying.

[SinisterSerpents]

I have a fujifilm--- I'm at work so I can't tell you the model number right off--- but it has a marco and super macro for those really close up shots and I love it!!! The only thing is that when using the super macro you have to have a really steady hand or the pic comes out blurred or you need a tripod. I bought mine off ebay for less than $200 and its the best by far I've had and I've owned quite a few. If you are interested in researching this camera pm me and when I get home I'll let you know what model number it is.

[Dave763]

Macro lens with a ring flash. A light tent with 3 100 watt daylight lamps. A nice surface, mirror,tile,ect.

I use a Canon Rebel xsi with a canon macro lens EF-S 60mm canon MR-14EX ring flash.

[Clear]

A decent camera with a good lens with great amount of light and a great subject. Practice a lot!

[redpython]

you dont nec. need a macro lens.

if you are using a point and shoot, give yourself some distance and use the zoom so the flash doesn't blow out the shot.

[Praetori]

A little note to add about how to take the shot-notice the angles that the best pictures are taken at. Better pictures are usually closer to eye level with the animal rather than shot from above. You usually can't go wrong with taking a shot when their head is at a 45 degree angle from you (ex Dave763's python pic). Looking up composition helps...like knowing the "rule of thirds." Little things like that can help a lot. The more you learn about photography and the more you practice, the better your shots will be.

[brainman1000]

you dont nec. need a macro lens.

if you are using a point and shoot, give yourself some distance and use the zoom so the flash doesn't blow out the shot.

I have tried both ways and found that using the zoom method usually reduces the quality of the photo. The macro lens really allows you to get up close without sacrificing image quality. As for flash, I don't use the camera flash. Exterior lighting for me produces the best results.

[abi21491]

I personally use a Sony Cybershot H20, and I love it. It is what you could consider a "bridge" camera. I used to use a HP M425 and I was still able to get decent shots, but it took a lot more patience. I think the key to good pictures is lighting and patience. I would consider the HP I had mediocre and I was able to get this:



With my Sony, the difference is obvious. First of all it is much easier to use and the image quality is much better. Here are a few with my Sony.



some day old pinkies.

[Brian Fobian]

I have a Sony DSC-HX1 and it is really good - also in dark situations where you don't want to use a flash. And not that expensive - in the US you get it almost for free I think And it is also kind of small compared to a pro camera