Macrophotography is extreme close-up photography of small subjects, in which the size of the subject in the photograph is greater than life size. The ratio of the subject size on the film plane (or sensor plane) to the actual subject size is known as the reproduction ratio. Likewise, a macro lens is classically a lens capable of reproduction ratios of at least 1:1, although it often refers to any lens with a large reproduction ratio despite rarely exceeding 1:1.
A dedicated macro lens has an amazingly shallow depth of field. It should be kept horizontal and not at an angle. Any little movement or vibration will capture an out-of-focus photo. For this reason, using a photo stand is recommended.
