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03/06/2010 02:05:13 PM · #1 |
Hi all. I am considering getting a macro lens for my D90, I would like some suggestions to some brands that really have great value for the price tag. I was looking at the Nikon 60mm 2.8 micro but the $440 price tag is a bit more than I would like to spend. I'm not even sure if that's a recommended lens to begin with.
Also, as a technical macro lens question, from what I understand about macro lens, the shorter the focal distance of lens, the shorter the minimum focus distance? Like my sensor width is 23mm, so if I'm using a 50mm 1:1 and a 200mm 1:1 macro lens to fill the frame of a subject that's 23mm wide in real life, then the distance between the lens and the subject is less for the 50mm?
But what about if I wanted to use a macro lens for taking non-macro subjects? Can I use my 50mm macro the same way I use let's say a 50mm prime lens? Like I was considering buying a 50mm 1.8 prime lens, but if I'm going to buy a 50mm 2.8 macro and I don't mind that it's a little bit slower, then can I just buy the macro and have the same uses as the prime? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
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03/06/2010 02:16:21 PM · #2 |
Hi George!
Consider the Tamron 90 Di for Nikon.
One of the best best value for money.
Regards,
Joao
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03/06/2010 02:32:39 PM · #3 |
Hi, and welcome to DPC.
Also check out the very good Sigma 105mm f2.8 EX DG Macro.
You can`t really go wrong with macro lenses as the main brands are all very good. |
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03/06/2010 08:20:03 PM · #4 |
Originally posted by airxmoa:
But what about if I wanted to use a macro lens for taking non-macro subjects? Can I use my 50mm macro the same way I use let's say a 50mm prime lens? |
The top 5 entries for the Nikon 60 mm macro lens are portraits.
link to 60 mm macro
ETA:
Top 3 entries for the Nikon 105 mm macro lens are two people and a lizard.
link to 105 mm macro
Message edited by author 2010-03-06 20:27:01. |
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03/06/2010 11:27:23 PM · #5 |
| If you are looking for value for Money, The Tamron 90mm as said by sarampo is definately a nice chunk of glass for the price. Out of 4 Tamron lenses that I have owned, The 90mm is the only one I still own and use. |
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03/06/2010 11:33:20 PM · #6 |
I'd take a look at what types of macros you want to do. I've always loved  IreneM's water macros and she uses a 60 mm. The type of shots I wanted to do however were more the insect's and creepy crawly stuff. For those a longer macro like the 105 mm is needed. (With the 60 mm to fill the frame you need to be less than 4 inches away from the subject...something you don't want to do if the bug is bee or a wasp!). If you have a chance to rent before you buy I highly recommend it. There's no sense trying to save a bit of money but getting something that doesn't suit your needs and the best way to know is to try it out. Keep in mind too that macro photography requires a LOT of patience so its definitely something to try out before making the big purchase.
Message edited by author 2010-03-06 23:34:42. |
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03/07/2010 08:34:56 AM · #7 |
Bear in mind that needs and pricing are often diametrically opposed. I have found that compromising in what I want because of a price, I have always regretted it and spent more in the long run because I ended up getting what I wanted in the first place anyway, but spent money and was disappointed in the meantime.
This is going to be the direction I'm going for my micro/portrait lens when I save enough money.....
AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR Lens
Obviously, your mileage may vary depending on your needs, but to echo what  Citadel said, perhaps rent the one you think you'll most likely want and use it to help you decide.
Then just hope the one that most suits your needs isn't $1000+!!! LOL!!!
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03/07/2010 09:43:57 PM · #8 |
Thanks for the suggestions guys. I've narrowed it down to two lens I'm considering. I think after looking over some options, I'd prefer going with a Nikon lens because of the faster focus time that comes with it. Would you guys be able to tell me what the difference is between:
Nikon 85mm f/3.5G AF-S DX ED VR
Nikon 60mm f/2.8D AF
What exactly is the difference between G and D behind the aperture number. Also, what's AF-S DX ED VR?
I'm pretty familiar with focus distance and aperture, so I'm just wondering what the above asked letters represent. Thanks
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03/07/2010 09:50:35 PM · #9 |
Originally posted by airxmoa:
Thanks for the suggestions guys. I've narrowed it down to two lens I'm considering. I think after looking over some options, I'd prefer going with a Nikon lens because of the faster focus time that comes with it. Would you guys be able to tell me what the difference is between:
Nikon 85mm f/3.5G AF-S DX ED VR
Nikon 60mm f/2.8D AF
What exactly is the difference between G and D behind the aperture number. Also, what's AF-S DX ED VR?
I'm pretty familiar with focus distance and aperture, so I'm just wondering what the above asked letters represent. Thanks |
The AF= Auto focus
The S= Silent wave motor (In the lens itself which means it'll work on the D40/D60s without internal motors.
The DX= The lens is specifically made for the crop-sensor cameras.....like the D90.
The ED= Extra low dispersion elements used in the lens.
Lasty, the VR= Vibration Resistance.....a really nice touch for those hand-held shots.
Duh, Jeb! The G & D indicate information transmitted to the camera from the lens.
Message edited by author 2010-03-07 21:51:57.
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