The terms “macrophotography” and “close-up photography” are often used interchangeably. However, there is a clear difference between the two.
Technically, a “close-up photograph” is an image with a reproduction ratio of between 1:10 (0.1×) to just under 1:1 (1×), i.e. the actual size of the photographed subject at the distance from which it is viewed. A true macro photograph, on the other hand, has a reproduction ratio of between 1:1 (1×) and 10:1 (10×). Any image with a magnification greater than 10:1 (10×) falls into the specialized field of photomicrography.
Photographers, books, magazines, and websites often use the word “macro” to describe close-up photographs. Although this is technically incorrect (and this error can even be found in lenses sold with “macro” functions that do not actually achieve the 1:1 reproduction ratio), the distinction is usually of little relevance, with the exception of those projects in which fidelity to the original size is essential for some reason.
- Learn more: What is the reproduction ratio?
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