SX50 macro setting, not working??

[LimePickle]

I have a SX50 camera that I bought about four months ago. I am not camera savvy at all, so I hope my issue makes sense! I am keen to explore photographing close-ups of flowers but cannot get the camera to focus for this. I am trying to use the macro function on the AUTO setting, but neither turning the dial or pressing the "left" arrow (macro) button brings up the option on the screen. (In fact, in AUTO, I find that only the "top" button/dial turn and the "right" button/dial turn, work at all - I get no option of either ISO or macro. Is this normal??)

I'd be grateful for any advice.

LimePickle.

[John_]

It was to cloudy out during the period here in North America from 2-4am. so no shots afterall.

I did notice that a less than full moon has its advantages over a full moon picture Veteran. I am still amazed at the detail this camera can capture

[samintx]

I"m getting the SX50 and would like to try my hand at the moon. What are the settings? or just auto zoom?

[John_]

hi I just used Program mode, a tripod and a remote shutter switch because it is a long exposure. I also moved the focus bracket around the frame to a good spot on the moon with detail so it would focus better. Most of my shots were at about 75-100X and a few very close ones at 150-200X. I did not have to make any adjustments to get very good printable pictures. Did the same during the day when the moon was visible too.

In addition I found an area with no ambient lights, street lights, house lights etc. and I used a lens hood so that I mostly only had the light from the subject entering the lens. I took them without the lens hood and did not see any difference either.

[Vetteran]

. . . and use RAW, then convert the file with Canon's own DPP.

In fact, use RAW all the time. 

f8 for the Moon and when you want best detail.

Extend the use of your canon.

Anyone gone for the SX60?

[samintx]

I'm a newbie, also..Will check with my camera and get back on the forum with what I've found. Do it take macro picts even tho the symbol doesn't appear? or in other settings?

[John_]

Not me Im holding out for the SX100, by then my 50 will be well used and it would make sense to upgrade.

[samintx]

Well, like my little Red 2003 Benz  being my last car, the SX50 will be my last camera upgrade because of my age.

I do love to take pictures altho really a point and shoot I have produced some professional looking pics of my extensive travels to Madagascar, Papua NG, etc etc. I envy younger camera fans. I am also thinking about a Nat'l Geo camera vacation. But would like to find out more on that. I am going to be getting acquainted with my SX50 before my January trip to Patagonia and the Easter Islands. Should get some great shots with it.

What about the filter kits sold on Amazon for this camera? do you recommend them? if so, which one for my travels? Thanks.

[John_]

Yes you select it using the control dial on the back of the camera, the left/right arrows.

[samintx]

I'm a dummy camera user but found "P" and love it! Glad for your confirmation. I'm going to explore that setting more.