Close ups require paying attention to details, the first you've already been given keep the camera still. This is best done by using a simple tripod, I'm talking $10 or less for something that will just put the camera up in the air about 6". If you have a tripod where the center piece comes out and it can be put in from the bottom of the place it just came out of then even better as the camera can be mounted upside down for some amazing tight close ups.
Lighting: The White Balance will need to be adjusted to the type of light you are using: sunlight, mecury coily type of bulb light, fluorescent etc.
Focus: Macro setting needs to be used and then you must figure out how to hold the object to obtain the picture you want. Some common "Holding Aids" would be plumbers putty, silly putty, a mild rubber cement IF the camera can not be tilted over to look down on the subject.
IF you have good sunlight, not too strong/bright and not too dim that will be a plus as the camera will change its 'F' stop and shutter speed to compensate for all the light making the picture depth of field greater and hence the picture sharper.
Lots of tricks one can do with lighting and backgrounds to create very special pictures........................63bkpkr
