Close-up and macro on a budget

Possibly you have been put off from trying out macro or close-up photography because of the costs involved. With the cost-of-living crisis putting pressure on budgets, not to mention the rising costs of camera gear, it’s tempting to think that there are cheaper genres. But in fact you can still enjoy macro and close-up photography without a major outlay. As well as a wide choice of quality second-hand macro lenses from trusted suppliers such as MPB, Park Cameras, Wex Photo Video, London Camera Exchange, CameraWorld, Ffordes and the other dealers who advertise in AP, you can also pick up lots of budget accessories. Indeed, as you will see over the next few pages, you may already have some accessories – a kneeling mat for gardening or a pair of scissors are the obvious examples. Many of the budget acccessories we have identified can be pressed into service for other types of photography, too.

As we’ve seen in other articles this issue, the beauty of macro and close-up photography is that it can be practised anywhere, including your home or garden. You don’t need to head off to an exotic location. Do let us know if you have any ingenious and cheap budget macro hacks by emailing ap.ed@kelsey.co.uk.

Bean bag

‘Obviously, tripods offer excellent stability and flexibility, but if I’m shooting on the ground, I often find that a bean bag does the job just as well – if not better! You can buy bags filled or unfilled, with or without liners, and some versions come with a detachable carrying strap.’

Tracy Calder, Instagram @cupoty

Right-angle viewfinder

● Nikon DR-6 ● £240

‘I use three cheap items for my close-up