Macro Magic with Mike Moats

Ever wonder how macro pros get those stunning backgrounds without hauling their gear into a meadow at golden hour while being swarmed by mosquitoes the size of helicopters? Let me introduce you to Mike Moats’ brilliantly simple setup — and his secret weapon: Platypod.

This jaw-dropping close-up of a pink zinnia is textbook Moats: crisp, vibrant, and popping right off the screen with a beautiful creamy green background. But here’s the kicker — that green isn’t some magical forest bokeh. Nope. It’s a printed backdrop. And the entire thing was shot indoors on a simple folding table. Let that sink in.

Now check this out:

Behind the flower lies a small-but-mighty macro studio. Mike’s using a Platypod eXtreme to support his camera, paired with flexible Platypod Goose Necks for supporting lights and a printed green background held by a Platypod Mini Super Clamp. Everything is clean, compact, and dialed in for precision.

That printed background? It’s clamped to a gooseneck arm on another Platypod Ultra, giving Mike the ability to adjust height and angle to get that perfect bokeh blend. The lighting is controlled, the subject is secure, and Mike can shoot all day without chasing the sun or dealing with wind. Honestly, it’s macro Zen.

Why This Works:

• Stability: Platypod keeps the setup solid and shake-free, which is crucial when you’re living in the land of millimeters.

• Modularity: Flexible arms let you mount lights, backgrounds, reflectors, and more, wherever you want them.

• Efficiency: With everything dialed in, you can focus on the art, not the logistics.

So the next time you're eyeing a flower and thinking, “If only the light were better… if only the background was softer…” Remember this setup. With a couple Platypods, a printed background, and some smart lighting, you can build your own macro dreamland right at your kitchen table.

Mike’s not just showing us a pretty flower — he’s showing us what’s possible.

Mike Moats is an award winning macro photographer. Learn more about him at his website.