Photographing snowflakes: This is how great photos are made

Photographing snowflakes is an exciting activity: on the one hand, no snowflake is like the other, on the other hand, the flakes are extremely small and fragile. You can find out how to get the best photos of snowflakes in this practical tip.

Photographing snowflakes - you need this equipment

• The equipment you need to take pictures of snowflakes isn't necessarily expensive - provided you already have a camera that lets you change lenses or unscrew filters.
• In terms of quality, you get the best results if you use intermediate rings. This improves the imaging scale of the lens and reduces the minimum focusing distance - i.e. the minimum distance between the snowflake and your lens. This will get your motifs bigger on the picture. Make sure you get the right extension rings for your camera model. Ideally, use the intermediate rings with a macro lens.
• The next alternative is a little cheaper: With a macro lens, you can photograph snowflakes to fill the image. Screw the lens onto your existing lens and get started. If you have several lenses, it is advisable to try out all possible combinations. The only disadvantage of macro lenses is the image quality, which is usually too low for professional shots.

Photograph snowflakes - that's how it's done

• First of all, you have to consider the background on which you want to photograph the snowflakes. Dark materials are particularly suitable here, since the flakes can be seen better here. Note, however, that the structure of the background will be very clearly recognizable on your end result.
• Now cool the improvised photo background so that the snowflakes do not melt when you come into contact with them. If it is cold enough outside, simply place the material on the windowsill. Otherwise, your freezer can do the job.
• The most important ingredient for your photo is snowflakes: it should not be just any, but very fresh ones. These have not yet melted or broken off and therefore look best. To do this, put the chilled photo background outside when it snows.
• Now you just have to wait with the camera ready for a perfect snowflake to land. If your camera has problems focusing, simply focus manually. A tripod or other stable base is also helpful. Now it just means: try it! Try different perspectives, different snowflakes, and different camera settings.