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How I Shoot: Macro Nature Photos with @rickyohead

How I Shoot is a series where we ask Instagrammers to tell us about their photo-taking processes. This week, @rickyohead shares his tips for taking up-close photos of nature with a mobile macro lens.

Camera: iPhone 4, with Olloclip macro lens

Vantage Point: Bug’s-eye view, very close to the subject. Crawling in the grass, peeking under a leaf, on my tippy toes to reach a flower — whatever it takes to capture a unique perspective.

Shooting: Public parks and preserves are best, but nature is everywhere if you look carefully. Lighting is key. Early morning is great because of the strong, warm colors and opportunity to get a sharp, backlit shot. For bugs, be patient and don’t be afraid of the critters you find. If they fly away when you approach, they usually land close by. To create depth, try shooting from the side, as opposed to straight down.

Editing: I don’t like to alter a macro nature photo after it’s been taken. All the details and imperfections make it real. The square 1:1 Instagram crop is a great opportunity to frame creatively. On rare occasions, I’ll apply the Instagram Lux filter to add vibrancy and contrast.

For more iPhone macro tips from Ricky, visit his website. @rickyohead would also like to especially acknowledge his friend and macro mentor, @eyefor.