Speaking of pics, lets talk about taking good macro shots...
We have been taking pictures of cannabis for quite some time now. Our photographer doesn’t have the priciest camera or set-up, but it works great for him! This was learned the hard way, by trying all different configurations in order to get good clarity and definition of image. Now we want to pass that info onto you.
Step 1: Buy a decent camera.
Notice I didn’t say to spend a few grand on a top-of-the-line Nikon. Nothing against them, (they make awesome cameras BTW) but it won’t be absolutely necessary for our application. If you feel the need to splurge, then by all means do so. Just ensure that you have a good macro setting on whatever you buy, test it in the store on small objects and
presto.
I currently use a Cannon Powershot SX20
Another option if you want to save some cash and buy an AWESOME all-around camera try the Olympus Tough Series. They range from $180-400, are 100% waterproof, shock proof and have a decent macro function. I used this same camera in the past with GREAT results as well. It is pretty damn indestructible for those accident-prone individuals out there too.
Step Two: Buy some florescent desk lamps or shop lights.
Daylight spectrum is what to look for; this mimics the sun, which provides the best light for proper color expression in your photo. Shooting cannabis, you will most likely be inside so remember, natural or blue tinted light makes for FAAAAR better pictures than an ugly “warm” spectrum incandescent lamp.
Step Three: Get some backdrops.
Either plain black and white or get creative, never forget that photography is art. You can use anything. Fabric from the craft store is a good start. Avoid anything with sheen as it will reflect light back into the lens and ruin your photo. Stick with flat suede for a nice even background. Always check your background for anything that might be used against you… like a letter sitting on a countertop, distinguishing landmarks, your license plate etc.
Step Four: Get some Dank
Nuff Said.
Step Five: Try different auto settings and macro modes
Many cameras today have automatic functions and settings that adjust for environmental conditions. Under HPS light I set my camera to tungsten lighting mode. Your camera will possibly be different; you just have to try different settings until you find the right one. An old trick for getting the lines out of your photos that is caused by any nearby magnetic ballasts is to pop out a polarized lens from some cheap sunglasses and hold it in front of the camera! Don't use the flash unless you are getting a better pic, chances are you wont need it. For those advanced users out there, you will have to go to manual mode for the absolutely best pics but auto will get you damn close to perfection sometimes. Pics taken under HPS will typically be substandard, go after lights out or remove to a separate room for best results.
Step Six: Take the damn pictures
I adjust my lights to get an even spread and start snapping. If you are getting over exposed pics from too much light, turn down the exposure, it will take away that blurry washout. When shooting macro shots, I position the lamp directly over the lens, like the old school flash bulb rig seen below. Get CLOSE and don’t worry about the edges of the frame, you will be cropping later to improve focus. For those who don’t know BTW, macro is the button with the little plant on it. It will take you a few attempts to figure out the proper configuration but each camera is different and requires a small amount of trial and error. I don’t use a tripod but would recommend a monopod if you are shaky or have to take a lot of pics in a single session
Step Seven: Edit your photographs
This part is pretty easy. Use your favorite photo editor to crop the pics selecting only the small section in focus and eliminating the blurry edges filled with shadow. Adjust exposure, saturation and sharpness if need be. Some editors even have a simple button that says enhance. Once complete you should have some real nice macro shots, fully exposing the trichomes for inspection. This allows you to time your harvest to perfection and also keep good records for next round!
So….. that’s about it. This has been a crash course in taking good bud shots. If you have any questions or ways to improve things, please let us know. We are not professionals, just some growers with an extra hobby or two.
Welcome to The Green Revolution! 
One love and as always much love to you!!!!!!! 
