Why is Photographing Insects and Other Small Things Called Macro Photography Rather than Micro Photography?

Photography involving the capturing of small subjects in a way that enlarges their representation to the extent that they appear life-sized when viewed on a standard medium is often referred to as macro photography. However, it is sometimes mistakenly associated with microphotography. This article aims to clarify the differences between macro and micro photography, their definitions, and the implications.

Understanding the Terms

Before delving into the specifics, it's important to establish a clear understanding of the two terms: macro and micro.

Macro comes from the Greek word Makros, which means long or great. It refers to something that is large in size. Conversely, micro comes from the Greek word Mikros, meaning small or minute. Hence, macro photography involves capturing small subjects in a way that makes them appear large or life-sized, while microphotography focuses on capturing extremely small subjects that are magnified to a significant degree.

Microphotography

Microphotography is a technique that involves taking pictures through a microscope. It uses an optical microscope to magnify very small specimens so that they can be captured in the camera's field of view. This process often requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure that the subject is in focus and the image is clear and sharp.

Macro Photography

Moving on to macro photography, it is a technique used to capture images where the size of the subject is magnified, but not to the extent that it appears life-sized. In photography terms, macro photography is defined as the size of the object being imaged being between the size of the image on the sensor and 10 times the image size. For example, if you are photographing a 3-inch Chess set King and filling a portrait mode 1.5-inch full frame sensor, you are at a 2:1 ratio and are practicing macro photography.

Comparing Micro and Macro Photography

Key differences between the two techniques lie in the magnification ratio and the equipment used:

Microphotography: The object is extremely small, and the image is magnified to a significant degree, often 2 or more. Specialized microscopes and lenses are required to achieve this level of magnification. Macro Photography: The object is relatively small, and the image is magnified to make it appear large or life-sized, typically between 1:1 and 10:1. Standard macro lenses are sufficient for this technique.

Key Definitions and Examples

Let's examine some key definitions and examples to further clarify the concepts:

Microphotography: A fly, 1/4 inch tall, imaged on a full frame sensor as a one-inch tall image filling the frame vertically. This would be considered microphotography. Macro Photography: Photographing a 3-inch Chess set King with a lens that fills a 1.5-inch full frame sensor at a 2:1 ratio. This would be considered macro photography.

Conclusion

In summary, the terms macro and micro photography serve to differentiate between the magnification of small subjects. Macro photography captures small objects in a way that makes them appear life-sized, while microphotography involves magnifying extremely small objects to a significant degree. Understanding these distinctions enables photographers to choose the appropriate technique and equipment for their photography goals.

For more detailed information and to explore the technical aspects of macro and micro photography, read our guide and explore our photography tips.

Keywords: macro photography, micro photography, photography terms