Canon Macro Lens.

[Dryfly]

Hello, a question from a friend.

A canon EF 50mm f2.5 compact macro lens, is it able to take the same shots as a EF 50mm f1.8 standard lens?

I understand that one has wider aperture. Is it that the macro lens can focus a lot closer? Is that the difference and can you still use it to take infinite distance shots as with the EF 50mm f1.8 standard lens.

Any help would be great.

 

[JustAnEngineer]

Yes, with the exception of the MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5X. The other four Canon macro lenses can focus out to infinity. Note that the EF 50mm f/2.5 compact macro only allows a maximum magnification of 1:2, while the other three are 1:1.
EF 50mm f/2.5 compact macro review
EF-S 60mm f/2.8 macro USM review
EF 100mm f/2.8 macro USM review
EF 180mm f/3.5L macro USM review
Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di macro review
Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG macro review

 

[usayit]

if you add the "life-size" Canon converter which is specifically designed for the 50mm f/2.5 macro, you'll have 1:1.

 

[JustAnEngineer]

if you add the "life-size" Canon converter which is specifically designed for the 50mm f/2.5 macro, you'll have 1:1.

True. Do you lose infinity focus with the life size converter installed?

I suppose we should mention that you could use Canon or 3rd party extension tubes with the EF 50mm f/1.8 to get macro magnification.

 

[usayit]

AFAIK, infinity focus is maintained. BUT.. I still would prefer the 100mm (or similar focal length) for macro.

 

[Big Mike]

I've heard great things about the EF-S 60mm macro lens.

 

[Dryfly]

This forum is the best, I and others have learnt so much from you in this thread alone! Thanks very much! You are all excellent and In particular Mike's lens pick for cropped sensor affordability. Thank you!!