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[sphelps]

Originally Posted by o.c.d.

Sphelps I'm confused how did you know the camera I was using? And I'm puzzled buy the 1:1 ratio. I think it is 1:1 ,I'm using the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro lens. Or am I suppose to be like 1" from the subject?

Magic! Haha, jk. All digital cameras store data in each photo called exif data. This contains all the information about the picture including camera model, focal length, shutter speed, aperture, and so on. I can simply extract that data from any image with a simple plug-in on my computer. It's a nice feature to have because if you see a picture on the web you like, you can find out how it was taken, great for learning! If you don't have a plug-in or a program and don't want one you can use one of many online extractors. One is camerasummary.com

The 1:1 ratio is the definition of a macro/micro shot. If you look on your focus ring you'll see, along with the distance, a ratio (usually the closest focusing distance). If you focus on a subject at point you're at the 1:1 ratio and taking a true macro shot.

I apologize for not explaining this better but I simply assumed you knew all this because your pictures are that good! The best advice I can offer is for you to try and see what you can do without a flash. Top down will give the best results and you may need to use a tripod of some sort to steady the camera. You'll want a long exposure and a small aperture along with a low iso. You'll need to turn off all circulation to prevent your subject from moving but by doing so I'm sure your results will be even more spectacular.