Close-up critters

Our Apprentice catches the macro bug with pro nature

- Ross Hoddinott

''I guess photography is a form of escapism for me," said Matthew as he and Ross wandered along the sun-kissed riverbank. "How can anyone argue with that?" replied the pro as he gestured towards the surrounding countryside of Cornwall's picturesque Tamar Lakes. "It's a great excuse to visit your local nature reserve and enjoy the wildlife that resides there. But you don't have to head out into the wilds to photograph insects. Almost everything you'll learn today is transferable, whether you're shooting in a garden or a tiny green space in a city."

THE APPRENTICE

NAME: Matthew Barber

CAMERA: Nikon D5500

Matthew lives in Bedfordshire and picked up photography as a relaxing outlet from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life. While some consider photography an expensive hobby, Matthew has proven you can capture cracking close-ups with just a few extension tubes and close-up filters. That said, he can’t wait to take a proper macro lens for a spin, and is already eyeing up an upgrade…

THE PRO

NAME: Ross Hoddinott

CAMERA: Nikon Z 7II

Cornwall-based Ross is multi-award-winning wildlife, landscape, and macro photographer. He received his first camera at the tender age of nine and turned pro at just 18. Since then, he’s been a regular in the photography press, worked with clients such as the National Trust and Kew Gardens, led a plethora of workshops, and written best-selling photography books. If anyone knows how to find and photograph insects, it’s Ross. For more see: www.rosshoddinott.co.uk

SUPER SHOT #1