Macro Photography: A Technical Field Walk

Join Adam Morgan for a technical "walk and talk" and experiment with macro photography. This specialized workshop offers a rare opportunity to zoom in and appreciate features most don't get to see. You will learn how to capture the stunning, minute details of our Island's natural world.

We welcome photographers of all levels who want to move beyond basic snapshots and explore the mechanics of close-up photography in a “real world” environment. This workshop is designed for DSLR or Mirrorless camera users and is not suitable for phone photography.

We will move at a “macro pace,” focusing on the small details that usually go unnoticed. This is a practical session where we troubleshoot the common hurdles of macro photography, including:

Lighting in the Wild: Demonstration of how use flash and diffusers as well as how to use portable LED setups for still subjects and shaded areas.
Stability & Focus: When to use a tripod for focus stacking versus handheld “sway” techniques for moving subjects.
Optics & Settings: Advice on aperture “sweet spots,” avoiding diffraction, and managing paper-thin depth of field.
Finding Subjects: Learning to spot the patterns, silhouettes, and “signs” of local Manx invertebrates and flora.
What to bring:

Your own camera gear (preferably a macro lens or “close-up” diopter filters are recommended). Your camera must have full manual settings.
Lenses: Please bring a macro lens if you can. Otherwise, bring a lens capable of manual focus.
A flash and diffuser if you have one.
Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes and a rain jacket (we will carry on in light rain).
A tripod is optional—bring it if you wish to practice focus stacking on still subjects.
Gear Demo:

I will be bringing my professional macro rig for demonstrations, along with a spare GH5 setup equipped with a 4x diopter. Attendees are welcome to try this kit to see how dedicated macro tools can change your workflow.

Accessibility:

We will be moving slowly with frequent stops. You should be comfortable standing for periods and potentially kneeling or leaning to reach subjects at ground level.

Weather Contingency: In the event of heavy rain, we will utilize nearby shelter for a hands-on gear demonstration and a Q&A session on macro lighting and editing.
Dogs: No dogs please, to ensure we don’t disturb delicate wildlife at ground level.
Parking: Limited parking is available near the reserve entrance; please car-share where possible.
Location: Close Sartfield (ASSI & Ramsar Site) Windmill Lane, Ballaugh Curragh, Ballaugh. OS Map Reference: SC358955, What 3 Words ///Symptom.Twinge.Raindrops , Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lq4Dry345gWWMwSNA
For enquiries: adamamorgan@live.co.uk or 07624 486390