I have 'the rebel' and the sigma 105 macro lens, I know it is suppose to have good depth of field, but I seem to have very hard time getting things focused in a way that is satisfying, any tips as to how to improve shots with this lens, to get 'less' DOF??
I think you'll want to use a tripod and a big F number, ie. F16 and higher (the 105 goes up to F45). That'll to get more DOF (more in focus). Plus use the camera's self timer to reduce camera shake.
I did use a tripod and self timer for both shots. In the first I would of like the green center also to be in focus. And the flower obviously in the second.
You'll need to set the camera on Av (aperture priority) and set the apterture to F24 (or whatever it is); the camera will set the shutter speed for you.
Originally posted by ellamay:
I did use a tripod and self timer for both shots. In the first I would of like the green center also to be in focus. And the flower obviously in the second.
Do you both always shoot manually? I tend to use the dummy modes, I would have no clue how to guess what settings to use. I understand, the general idea, if light conditions fast shutter speed, if dark shutter open longer ect. but still seems like a lot of room for mistakes doing it this way, and am scared to try it. lol.
I use the "dummy mode too" on normal shots. Not automatic (green icon), but the Programmed (P) mode; it lets you play with exposure compensation. I use the Av (aperture priority) or Tv (shutter priority) if the situation calls for it, and full Manual (M) for more control while using my 550EX flash.
Practice makes perfect :) It will come in time. Good luck, I'm off to bed.
Originally posted by ellamay:
Do you both always shoot manually? I tend to use the dummy modes, I would have no clue how to guess what settings to use. I understand, the general idea, if light conditions fast shutter speed, if dark shutter open longer ect. but still seems like a lot of room for mistakes doing it this way, and am scared to try it. lol.
I have never used 'dummy mode' , the green square.
if I hand it to someone else to take a shot I stick it on green square, cos I know it will do for them what I do manually.
otherwise I almost always shoot on Av.
when shooting action I use sports mode for the AI-Servo focus.
I also shoot using Manual a bit, when wanting to expose on a shadowed area on a sunny day, when auto doesn;t do it right.
