Big World, Small Object Photography Challenge

My middle school photography students recently participated in a new challenge with their iPads and our macro lens attachments. Students chose 4 small objects from our stop motion supplies. I ordered a variety of cars, plastic dinosaurs, animals, LEGO mini figures, etc. so students could use these in both my STEAM and photography class. The goal was to take a macro photo of the object to make it look like it was huge outside. Then they took the macro lens off the iPad and took a photo of the object in the real world in the original size. We put the photos side by side in Keynote. We had so much fun and it was really cool to see the student creativity shine through in this activity.

We have been working on focal points, rule of thirds, and angles throughout our class. It was great to see the students thinking through all of these elements as they set up their small objects in the big world.

I attached my lesson visuals, examples, and student handouts for this activity.

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

Attachments

2 replies

April 07, 2025

I love this idea, Megan! Super fun and a great way to get students to think differently, and level up their photography skills.

They might enjoy the work of Japanese Artist, Tatsuya Tanaka, and his miniature art:

https://www.designboom.com/art/tatsuya-tanaka-miniature-life-exhibition-calendar-tiny-figurines-objects-08-22-2023/#:~:text=Tatsuya%20Tanaka%20is%20no%20stranger,face%20masks%20and%20household%20items.

I always find it inspiring!

April 07, 2025

Yes, agree with Eoin! Engaging way to learn photography skills. I was a high school digital photo teacher and I know Big World, Small Object would have gone over well with them too.

This post contains content from YouTube.

If you choose to view this content, YouTube may collect and process certain personal data. You can view YouTube’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/t/privacy" target="_blank">privacy policy here<span class="a11y">(opens in new window)</span>.</a>

This post contains content from YouTube.

You have rejected content from YouTube. If you want to change your consent, press the button below.