| Author | Thread |
|
|
08/21/2009 08:53:33 PM · #1 |
So, what tips can anyone offer for getting the most out of "dumb" extension tubes? "Dumb"--meaning extension tubes with no electronics.
How do you use them when you can't adjust the aperture and when you lose auto-focus?
Message edited by author 2009-08-22 02:12:29.
|
|
|
|
08/21/2009 09:32:23 PM · #2 |
I only have an old 50mm manual prime that I can use with "dumb" tubes. Everything is strictly manual. Exposure can be closely guessed at without the tube, then added to a stop or so. Trial and error. It makes you think a little more, and take your time. I haven't scored any real jewels with them yet, but haven't really had them very long. Still learning and experimenting.
|
|
|
|
08/21/2009 09:51:17 PM · #3 |
I use the ones that I have with older manual Nikon lenses on my Fuji S3. The older Nikon lenses all have aperture rings that work with the S3, and my ext tubes have the connecting mechanical linkage that allows me to focus at open aperture. The Fuji does not meter with any of the manual lenses though, but most of the time with macro it's easy to shoot a test shot or two.
I remember the older Canon FD lenses from the film days would stop down to the smallest aperture when you removed them from the camera. I used one for an enlarger lens, and got around that by putting a small bit of a rubber "O" ring behind the stop down lever so that the aperture ring would work. The new Canon lenses do not have a manual ring or a lever to work the aperture. If you get one of the Nikon "Ai" lens to Canon body adapters, you can use Nikon lenses for your macro. The Micro Nikkor 55/3.5's go for less than $100 US all the time on eBay.
I use my ext rings with several lenses from 24 to 300 mm and they seem to do a fine job. With the long lenses, you can get shy things like butterflies without spooking them. You still have the problem of camera shake and it's multiplied as you go more macro. I use a good monopod for most of my "macro on the move" shots.
|
|
Home -
Challenges -
Community -
League -
Photos -
Cameras -
Lenses -
Learn -
Help -
Terms of Use -
Privacy -
Top ^
DPChallenge, and website content and design, Copyright © 2001-2025 Challenging Technologies, LLC.
All digital photo copyrights belong to the photographers and may not be used without permission.
Current Server Time: 08/26/2025 02:23:05 PM EDT.
