[Closed] PICS For Tom and others: fogging around model cars - technique details …...

PICS For Tom and others: fogging around model cars - technique details …...

All photos in this sequence were taken with a Nikon D200 DSLR which has an APS-C image format sensor and a Nikkor 105mm macro lens mounted on a tripod. The camera's self timer was utilised to minimise camera shake. Other constants were setting the ISO rating at 100 and the focus on the Nissan badge in the radiator grille. The only change made was in the aperture setting. The camera automatically adjusted the shutter speed in relation to the aperture to gain a constant exposure value.

When we first take close-up shots we feel that the whole model car needs to be in sharp focus. To achieve this even on 1:43rd scale models we need to select a small aperture e.g. F22. However, selecting small apertures results in slow shutter speeds even in fairly bright outdoor conditions. Slow shutter speeds will result in camera shake so it is vital that a support, such as that provided by a tripod, is used.

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Aperture: F22 Shutter speed: 1/10th second ISO: 100

Focus point Nissan badge in radiator grille

Using this aperture has rendered the whole model to be in sharp focus and the background is relatively sharp.

However, some interesting effects can be gained by altering the aperture. In this case a mid-range aperture of F9 was selected.

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Aperture: F9 Shutter speed: 1/60th second ISO: 100

Focus point Nissan badge in radiator grille

Using this mid range aperture has blurred the background but also the rear of the model is less sharp.

A large aperture is one that has a small number e.g. F3.5. Interesting and even unusual results can occur when using large apertures in close-up photography.

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Aperture: F3.5 Shutter speed: 1/400th second ISO: 100

Focus point Nissan badge in radiator grille

Using this large aperture has blurred the background, foreground and most of the model car. However, because of the point of focus the front of the model is still sharp and the viewers point of interest is directed here. Blurring both the background and foreground helps isolate the model. This is a useful technique to use if the background/foreground have distracting elements.

Model: Nissan X-Trail 2008

Manufacturer: J-Collection

Colour: Sapphire Blue Pearl Metallic

Scale: 1:43rd

Reference number: JC139

Made in China

This model replicates Nissan's compact crossover Sport Utility Vehicle in it's 2nd generation form. First seen at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2007 and made available to the public later in the year. A face-lifted version appeared in August 2010