Techie question for George

[Lotus Eater]

and other photographers.

In my "Spring Garden" series I lined up a bee hovering just above a flower, put the camera settings onto 'jump' - i.e. the close close up thingy for flowers and insects - zoomed into what I thought was Ok distance, focussed - (auto setting) and pressed the button. Fuzzy photos. What am I doing wrong?

Of course the bloody bee buzzed off and I couldn't get another one just right!!

PS - did you note all the 'z's in this post. I'm becoming Chinese!

[Non-Dave]

Sounds a bit like like camera shake to me - can be very common when using a macro setting. The camera likes to be really still for these, and even the smalles movements can make a big difference to the clarity of the picture. You could try putting it on something solid (a rock, a bench) or ideally a tripod. Not great for those spur of the moment photos like you described, sorry.

You could also try to regulate your breathing - stand conmfortably and firmly, take a nice steady breath in and as you hold it for a moment gently caress the shutter button. Takes a bit of practice and is something you probably already know.

[George61]

What ND said. Close-ups need a tripod, and ideally a remote or cable release. Of course, the bee not standing still wouldn't have helped. The slightest breeze will knock your flower close-ups out of focus too.

[Raoul Duke]

If youse lugs ain't postin' no pitchers in this here thread I'm gonna move it.

[Lotus Eater]

OK bossy boots. here is a photo from my 'Spring garden" series. Couldn't bring myself to post a fuzzy one!