Besides the fact that I can't hold still, I have trouble with getting my close-ups to come out nicely. They seem to be blurry in the wrong places and/or focused in the wrong places. I have the hang of landscapes, but would like to photograph flowers up close. I'm using a Sony DSC P-150. (Probably not the best for the job, but would like to get whatever use out of it I can.)

how close are we talking? every lens has a minimum foucsing distance... check that out..

Have.you.read.you.manual.properly?

first off get out of auto focus and look at the lens, it will tel you the closest it can focus at.

use macro thing,
it's like this flower icon.

Guys, he is no using a DSLR... the "lens" setting is very limited.. if you have someone that can help with providing an extra light source to the subject, you might be able to get a clearer shot

Usage of a tripod, or something to stabilise the camera can help out a lot.

The length of your lens can determine depth of field if you want, say, a flower in focus but the rest blurry. The more extended the lens is the more depth of field. If that's not your problem then maybe check the specs for your lens. Sometimes, though, you may need an attachment such as an extension tube, magnifying filters, etc. or macro lens to get an extremely crystal clear shot. Also check your aperture, higher f-stops can intensify the effect. Experiment and see what works.

EDIT: Sorry, I didn't realize that your camera is not an SLR... configure your aperture and experiment.

As your camera is a point and shoot, it is unlikely you can purchase a close-up adapter, but you can find a small (and cheap) mini-tripod, which is essential for macros.

Either find the macro setting (usually shown as a flower icon) or, better, go manual. Make sure your subject is still (no wind blowing outdoors) and not in direct sunlight (colours blow out). Use the smallest possible aperture (highest A or Av number) to keep as much in focus as possible. The depth of field in macros is usually very narrow. The exposure will be longer, of course, hence the need for a tripod.

Use the timer to help prevent camera shake.

You can see examples of flower macros here, here and here.


Hope this helps

I do the same mistake all the time. Terrible hands. Here some blog it might help you. How to set camera for selective focusing

Hope it would be helpful. Good luck