Macro lenses

[lowdrag]

My daughter has got me interested in photographing creepy crawlies and thing that go whirr in the night so I'm going to buy a macro lens. Now I'm completely new to this lark so all the advice you can give me would be appreciated. Like, for example, how far away can you be to get good shots? I don't want to spend a fortune but this could be an interesting hobby. I use a D2X system.

[GetCarter]

I have the D2X and the Nikkor 105mm macro. (It's a 1:1 lens)

You can get about a foot away from the subject and it will get you this close:





(drop smaller than a pinhead)

The disadvantage is that it's DOF is WAFER thin.... but it's also a fairly useable longish lens.

Nikkor also do a 60mm (IIRC) which is chaper and slightly easier to use, but won't get you so close.

If you get one, read up on the best way to use it (which necessitates the user moving closer and further from the subject with the lens set to max) - It takes some getting used to but is the best way.

Steve

[KB_S1]

Taken with the 60mm that GetCarter mentions.

I loved this lens but it was on loan and had to go back.





As you can see on the second shot I got the DOF/focus slightly wrong. It is tricky to make out on the screen sometimes. Especially when the subject has natural defences and is only 25-30cm away.

[Gemm]

DoF is obviously important, but I think the lighting is as important with macro shots. You can get even closer with extension tubes.

[Steve Evil]

Looking to join the fold and get a 350D at some point, any tips for a good macro lens for the Canon cameras?

[Gemm]

Steve Evil said:

Looking to join the fold and get a 350D at some point, any tips for a good macro lens for the Canon cameras?

I use 100mm f2.8 macro. It's a fantastic lens and I'd definitely recommend it.

[Shadytree]

Chaps, were these all taken using a tripod? I guess at that magnification the slightest movement and your blurred.
Or what sort of shutter speeds ?

[_dobbo_]

Unless you are in very bright sunlight to have any chance with macro it's much easier to have a decent flash.

[V6GTO]

Gemm said:

I use 100mm f2.8 macro. It's a fantastic lens and I'd definitely recommend it.

Wot e sed...



Martin.

Edited by V6GTO on Wednesday 25th July 13:04

[Shadytree]

Got that lens sitting in my draw, but yet to give it a real bash in anger.

So what's the general setup for taking such shots? (apart from being talented)

Edited by Shadytree on Wednesday 25th July 13:33

[GetCarter]

Mine were both handheld, but as stated, you'll need pukka sunlight if you take that route.

[hawkaye]

another vote for handheld and Canon 100mm f2.8

[Shadytree]

blimey

What's the minimum focus distance on that lens and were you using an extention tube as well ?

Edited by Shadytree on Wednesday 25th July 15:33

[TonyHetherington]

Blimey!

Awesome shots. I love the look of them. Might have to invest (oh god, there's that word again...)

[EmmaP]

I love the visual quality of the image you get with a macro and the minimal depth of field that you may achieve. I'm very tempted to pay NYC a visit as I'm considering a shift lens too. With the dollar as it is currently, it'll be BOGOF. A sound investment!

Using a tripod is a must.

(Lovely shots by the way).

[Gemm]

Shadytree said:

Chaps, were these all taken using a tripod? I guess at that magnification the slightest movement and your blurred.
Or what sort of shutter speeds ?

My shots are hand-held 99.9% of the time as I use a flash(es) most of the time. I normally use 1/160s(ish). Tripod can be a real pain when chasing insects. My flash is more likely to be sitting on it.

Edited by Gemm on Wednesday 25th July 16:19

[Shadytree]

I'll have a bash tonight

(and try a macro shot)

[EmmaP]

Shadytree said:

I'll have a bash tonight

(and try a macro shot)

[EmmaP]

Gemm said:

My shots are hand-held 99.9% of the time as I use a flash(es) most of the time. I normally use 1/160s(ish).

Thanks for that info.

[Luca Brazzi]

Truly stunning pics there everyone. Just reminds me why I hate creepy-crawlies so much. They're so scary.

LB (the wuss)