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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Which Macro method is best for an dSLR?
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 02/14/2005 10:00:55 PM · #1
I am used to the macro mode on P&S cameras, and moving to a dSLR opens up a whole new world of possibilities...

So of these 4 methods, which is best for what, and how do i choose one over the other?

close up filters/lenses
macro lens (prime or zoom?)
extension tubes
reverse a 50mm prime and attach to another lens

I have the filters/lenses, have tubes coming in the mail, and have a 28-80 and a 50mm 1.8 but have not tried reversing it yet. A macro lens is on the eventual horizon, but probably as part of a bigger zoom lens.

Anyone done any test shots comparing one method to another?
 02/14/2005 10:09:41 PM · #2
Originally posted by Prof_Fate:

So of these 4 methods, which is best for what, and how do i choose one over the other?

close up filters/lenses
macro lens (prime or zoom?)
extension tubes
reverse a 50mm prime and attach to another lens



macro lens (prime or zoom?)
extension tubes
are the best methods most times because for one you retain AF and metering where these important features are lost with the reversed method and may be hindered by the filters. Also, close-up filters introduce a large amount of distortion. I prefer primes over zooms as a genral rule because the are sharper, but especially for macros because with most macro zooms you lose all zoom capability while in macro mode anyway.
 02/14/2005 10:19:12 PM · #3
I would agree with NSBCA7. A prime lens is a must with macro. A prime lens MACRO will give you true 1:1 ratio which is what you want. A zoom lens will not give you the 1:1 ratio.

I personally have the TAMRON 90mm Macro Di. I chose this one because of the performance, 6 yr warranty and comes with lens hood and soft case.

I know alot of people have the Canon and Sigma Macro lenses and are very happy with them.
 02/14/2005 10:36:42 PM · #4
Out of equipment you currently have or have ordered, I'd work with the 50/1.8 and the extension tubes. Your working distance will be rather short, but the quality will be very good.
For future, the Canon 100/2.8 macro (or the Tamron 90mm or Sigma 105mm). For a great all-around lens, it is hard to beat the Canon 100 Macro USM. Nearly "L" quailty build at a reasonable price.

Pros:
- USM & focus limiter (fast focus for a macro, full-time manual focus)
- So sharp you could shave with it
- Still sharp wide open and great bokeh... try shooting portraits with it :-)
- Did I mention great build quality?

Cons:
- Lens hood not included and costs $40 :-P
- You really do need the lens hood, the front element is not recessed much at all
 02/14/2005 10:47:05 PM · #5
The extension tubes, admittedly cheap ones, and only MF capable, were $24 including shipping. I plan on using the 50 with them. the turning around of the lens seems to creat complications of many kinds.

$469 for the canon lens at b&h. Not yet in my price range.
Can you say 'limited budget'? Perhaps i should call myself 'resourceful', as i made my backpack for $20.

I am thinking of trying my hand at weddings to make some toy money, so am i 'selling out'? Will 'true artists' look down on me now that I will be working for the money? Why do i feel dirty...oops, wrong forum.LOL
 02/14/2005 10:58:26 PM · #6
Originally posted by Prof_Fate:

I am thinking of trying my hand at weddings to make some toy money, so am i 'selling out'? Will 'true artists' look down on me now that I will be working for the money? Why do i feel dirty...oops, wrong forum.LOL


I thought it was crazy that there were people buying $7000 DSLR's... I figured they were just all rich and had money to burn. After I started doing weddings and portraits, as well as graphic design for hire, I realized it doesn't take all that long to come up with 7k. I still shoot with a 20D and I'm happy with it, but if I continue to book work as I have been, I will be able to upgrade sometime...

No need to ever be ashamed of working hard, at least, that's how I see it.

JD

By the way, I have the Canon 100mm 2.8 macro lens... wouldn't trade it for anything!
 02/14/2005 10:59:35 PM · #7
I think you'll be very pleased with the results from the extension tubes, and manual focus should not be an issue. One rarely uses AF in macro work, just set the focus to get the magnification you want and adjust the camera-to-subject distance to focus.
02/14/2005 11:26:16 PM · #8
Originally posted by kirbic:
One rarely uses AF in macro work,


You do if you're blind. I'm not legally blind but I can no loger see close up well enough to focus without AF unless the focus indicator light at least works. With the Canon EF II series extension tubes AF functions are fully functional.

02/14/2005 11:47:30 PM · #9
I used the close up filters for these two shots

The second was a true test shot - no objective in mind.
The first was on -purpose, so to speak, AF used. Not bad, but i saw afterwards that the big water drop in the middle needed to be sharper. MF might have made me sure to get it sharp...if only the Rebel had a split prism focus aid!

I just couldn't pass up these extension tubes.

Message edited by author 2005-02-14 23:48:16.
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