Guest Author: Kristīne Zāle - Sony Alpha Universe
Kristīne Zāle (@macro.viewpoint) is passionate about capturing nature's vibrant, dreamy details through macro and flower photography. “My love for photography started over 10 years ago, inspired by my dad, and truly took off when I discovered macro photography” she says. “I enjoy working with a shallow depth of field to highlight the beauty in the often-overlooked details of nature." For nearly three years, Zāle has been shooting with Sony Alpha gear, including the legendary Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G lens. "It's perfect for my close-up nature work, and I regularly share my photography, tips and tutorials on Instagram.” We caught up with Zāle to learn more about her single camera and lens macro kit – keep reading as she shares what’s in her bag.
Camera
Sony Alpha 7 IV: My Sony Alpha 7 IV is always with me on photo walks—it’s been my trusted companion since I first got it. The fully articulated screen is perfect for capturing those tricky low-angle shots without the discomfort of lying on the ground, especially useful for vertical macro photography. The 33 MP sensor gives me plenty of room to crop while preserving fine details. The newly added focus bracketing feature has been a game-changer for focus stacking, and I love the quiet operation of the silent shutter. Plus, the 10-fps burst mode is a great help for capturing insects in motion.
“These beautiful fly agaric mushrooms are captured from a low angle close to the ground taking advantage of the fully articulated screen.” Photo by Kristīne Zāle. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G.
Lens
Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G: The Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G is my go-to lens for macro photography. It lets me get close to insects without disturbing them, step back for flower shots, and maintain a beautiful background blur at f/2.8. I appreciate the additional function button, which makes magnifying the scene for precise focus quick and easy. Whether I’m capturing detailed macro or wider shots, this lens gives me the flexibility and results I want in my photos.
“The macro lens let me capture this damselfly’s fine details from a distance without disturbing it while keeping the stunning bokeh in the background.” Photo by Kristīne Zāle. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G. 1/320-sec., f/2.8, ISO 640
Accessories
LED Light: Ideal for adding a soft, dreamy glow to the foreground or background, especially during the darker months.
Diffuser: Perfect for softening harsh sunlight when there’s no one around to cast a shadow over my subject.
Extra Battery: A must-have on every walk, ensuring I’m never caught with a dead camera mid-shoot.
Photo by Kristīne Zāle. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G. 1/500-sec., f/9, ISO 640
Air Blower: Essential for keeping dust off the sensor when changing lenses.
Water Bottle & Snacks: Keeps me fueled and hydrated on longer photo walks.
Microfiber Cloth: Great for quick and safe lens cleaning on the go.
See more of Kristīne Zāle’s work on Instagram @macro.viewpoint.
Featured in this blog:
Sony a7 IV Mirrorless Camera Body
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
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