Tell me about the Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5X Macro Lens ....

[Ireland]

I'm thinking of getting a macro lens and the Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5X has been suggested by one of the lads in the local camera club

He doesn't have one, nor does anyone else in the club or anyone I know, so it's nit as if I can borrow one to try it.

Have any of you got one?

What's your opinion on it?

This is it ...

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Canon-MP-E-65mm-Macro-Came...

[DibblyDobbler]

I've got one

Hmm - where to start... It's like the evil genius of macro lenses. It can do things no other lens can do (ie 5x magnification) but it's a swine to use. No auto focus (no manual focus for that matter!), no zoom, no stabilisation, nothing. The focus distances are very small - ie you need to be within a few inches of the subject which can be tricky if it's a twitchy insect. Not a great idea if you are new to macro I would suggest, it's only for the committed geek

Oh and you'll need a flash - not really going to work without one.

If you get it working you can get stuff like this though so it's worth it

Bluebottle Macro by Dibbly Dobbler, on Flickr

[DibblyDobbler]

Oh and there's a macro thread on here where a few MPE users hang out

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

[DIW35]

My understanding is that particular macro lens can only be used for macro, as it doesn't have the focussing range to be used for more 'normal' photography. Personally I would opt for one of the 100mm macro lenses as they are easier to use, but can also be used as a normal lens if you find that macro photography isn't really your thing once you've tried it.

[DibblyDobbler]

DIW35 said:

My understanding is that particular macro lens can only be used for macro, as it doesn't have the focussing range to be used for more 'normal' photography. Personally I would opt for one of the 100mm macro lenses as they are easier to use, but can also be used as a normal lens if you find that macro photography isn't really your thing once you've tried it.

Yes you're right - max focus distance is around 5 inches iirc so useless for anything other than macro (and close range macro at that!)

[Ed_P]

It's horses for courses really. When you're after the ultra-small (these springtails are around 1.5mm), there not much to touch it for convenience and usability.

We are family ... by Ed Phillips 01, on Flickr

[RobDickinson]

You dont even get focus confirmation.

Its like the royalty of macro lenses though. To get more magnification you are into serious DIY territory!

As said, no focus, no zoom, needs light, but amazing results. Usually available on the used market too.

[55palfers]

For a fraction of the price, could you not buy a bellows and use any of your current lenses?

Used to do this in the old days of 35mm film

Might be a good way to master the technicalities of lighting and DoF

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nicna-Macro-Lens-Bellow-Ca...

[StuH]

My mint 100mm USM 'L' macro is up for sale

[DibblyDobbler]

...err you're welcome?