Hey Alice..

Depending on the size of the animals, I use project board alot for backgrounds too.. you can get it walmart (or something similar) and usually the big hobby/craft stores have a great selection. I have found yellow really brings out the color in a lot of reptiles. Also, they make a flat black one that reflects very little light, making it look as if there is no background at all.



As for book recommendations.. I don't know of any that deal with point and shoot cameras. You will certainly learn some stuff from the National Geographic Photography Field Manual (see URL below). It will help with a general understanding of lighting techniques, macro techniques and help you to learn about depth of field and how important it is in macro work.



THE BEST ADVICE ANY WILL EVER GIVE YOU!! and it is free, you need to read alot, and ask question for sure.. but the best way to get good at shooting photos.. is to take pictures.. lots of them.. and then take some more. There are some wonderful photographers on here than can help with constructive critics.. Think about composition all the time, and the techincal side of things will fall in place..



NOW, go take pictures..
Link


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photos.xtremecombatsports.com

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