Extreme Close-Up Human Eye
25 worksFirst upload: Jun 2016Peak: 2021Last 12 months: 0
📝 Description
The shared subject is the human eye, captured through extreme close-up photography. Photographers are drawn to this motif for its intricate textures and complex coloration within the iris, as well as the high contrast between the pupil and surrounding sclera. The images demonstrate varied shooting approaches, ranging from standard macro shots to unique perspectives like looking through a circular aperture or capturing reflections on the cornea. These compositions highlight the eye as a window to identity and detail. The group is united by the visual motif of the iris and pupil in high magnification.
How to shoot it
🏠 Studio or location
Shooting takes place in a studio or controlled lighting environment. A space is needed for a softbox and positioning the model at a distance suitable for macro lenses (40–150 mm).
💡 Light
Soft, directional light from a softbox is used. It creates sharp catchlights in the pupils and evenly illuminates the eye without harsh shadows, highlighting iris texture.
🧑🎤 Who you need
Model participation is mandatory. To achieve the 'wet' eye effect and clean catchlights, a makeup artist or assistant is often needed to apply special products (glycerin, drops) and manage eyelashes.
🎭 Props and costume
Props for creating a wet eye effect and clean catchlights: glycerin, special drops, or gel. False eyelashes may also be used to enhance contrast.
📄 Permissions
Written consent from the model for image usage is required. For minors, parental or legal guardian permission is necessary.
⏱️ Preparation
Preparation takes time due to retouching and lighting setup. Ensure model comfort for a steady gaze.
🎒 Gear
Use macro lenses with focal lengths of 40–150 mm (median 58 mm). A tripod is recommended for stability at slow shutter speeds.
Cameras and lenses the authors used (10)
Sony ILCE-7M3 4Sony D6503 1Samsung SM-G975U1 1Nikon D5100 1Apple iPhone 7 Plus 1AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G 2Sigma Macro 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM 2iPhone 7 Plus back dual camera 3.99mm f/1.8 1ZEISS Batis 2/40 CF 1Sigma APO Macro 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM 1
⚙️ Settings
Shutter 1/80 (1/160 – 1/30)Aperture f/5.6 (f/2.4 – f/8)ISO 800 (100 – 1600)Focal length 58 mm (40 – 150)
Based on 13 frames with camera data. Median and 10-90% range across the idea frames.
Key parameter: aperture f/2.4–f/8 (median f/5.6) for depth of field control. Shutter speed 1/80–1/160 s, ISO 100–1600.
📈 How the idea developed
works uploadedshare of all site uploads, per 100k
The date is when the file was uploaded to the site. The chart counts works assigned to the idea.
✅ How to repeat it
- Ask the model to focus on one point to keep the pupil steady.
- Use light reflection in the pupil as a compositional accent.
✨ Interesting facts
- 🏆 How the best frame was shot: Canon EOS 5D Mark III, Canon EF 35-80mm f/4-5.6, 1/125, f/2, ISO 100, 58 mm
- 📐 96% of frames are landscape orientation
- 📱 22% of frames were shot on a phone
- 🥇 1 works reached the finals. Best contest: Eyes 2021
- 👤 Most frequent authors: Андрей Шишлов 3
- 🌍 Authors by country: 🇷🇺 RU 14🇺🇦 UA 5🇮🇹 IT 2🇮🇳 IN 1🇰🇿 KZ 1
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Works
These lists are generated automatically and may contain inaccuracies. Photos are shown in random order, and selections are refreshed twice a day. This section is made for exploring photos and does not claim 100% accuracy. The lists include photos that previously participated in contests that are already completed.
