Here are my top tips for Wildflower Photography.

Before you go:
Research different locations. Not sure where to go? Check out my post on California wildflowers. 

Equipment:

• Tripod: good for macro shots and focus stacking. 
• Lenses: Wide angle for sweeping views, telephoto for tight compositions, and macro for details. 
• Polarizing filter: good for deep blue skies 
• Flash or reflector: good for popping extra light into flowers
• Diffuser: good for softening light 

Globe Lily

Globe Lily

Globe Lily

Technique:

• Lighting: If you can, shoot at the edge of the day instead of high noon. Mid-day light can be harsh and contrasty. If you can't avoid mid-day, bring a diffuser to help soften the light. If you have the option of shooting on an overcast  day, it's like having a giant diffuser in the sky, so it's perfect for wildflowers. 
• Aperture: experiment with different apertures/depths of field for different effects. To ensure the best focus on the subject, position the lens parallel to the most important part of the flower. 
• Shutter speed: to prevent unwanted motion blur, try a shutter speed of 1/200 or faster. 
• White Balance: don't forget to set the camera's white balance to compensate for lighting conditions. Not sure, what to choose? Check out my post on White Balance. 

Kelloggs Clarkia

Kelloggs Clarkia

Kelloggs Clarkia

Composition:

Here are some ideas for composing wildflower shots:

• A single flower isolated with an out of focus background (choose a wide aperture for this). 
• A flower, or field of flowers in the foreground of a larger landscape composition
• Macro shot of the flower detail 
• Use flowers to create leading lines and to create depth 
• Try abstract compositions to create unique images 
• Don't forget to shoot in both landscape and portrait orientations

Lupine

Lupine

Lupine

Etiquette:

Remember to practice good etiquette:

• Respect other photographers space and don't get in their shots
• Don't pick or trample flowers
• If you pack in - pack it out

Poppy

Poppy

Poppy

That's it. I hope this has helped you prepare for your best wildflower photos!