Close Up Photography shooting modes are typically standard on most DSLR cameras as well as on many point and shoot camera. The symbol indicating Close-Up Mode us usually a flower.
Camera manufacturers take different approaches to which component of exposure is given emphasis. Some cameras emphasize a small aperture to provide a large depth of field for the image, while other camera manufacturers emphasize a wide aperture’shallow depth of field ( DOF ) to create a blurred background behind the focal point of the subject.
There are benefits and drawbacks to both methods of Close-Up photo shooting mode. Note, however, that the common factor is changing the Aperture setting.
As with all camera features, make sure to refer to your user manual.
BENEFITS
- For inexperienced photographers, this shooting option is a “point-and-click” mode as the camera makes the three necessary calculations for you; ISO sensitivity, Shutter Speed, and Aperture.
DRAWBACKS
- With the camera selecting all exposure components, the user has no control, which limits creativity. As noted above, different camera manufacturers default to different desired outcomes (shallow vs. deep DOF). Your desired outcome might not match the camera default.
- If the camera opts for a deep DOF (small aperture opening e.g. f/22) the camera may not have a fast enough shutter speed to remain stable, and images might be blurry. Another possible drawback with small aperture default is the camera may boost the ISO setting to one of the higher values possible, thus introducing digital image noise into the exposure.
- If the camera opts for a narrow DOF (wide aperture opening e.g. f/4) the entire subject might not be in focus as desired.