What kind of a lens to shoot flower?

[tecboy]

I use a 70-300mm f/4-5.6. I'm struggling to get sharp images on the closeup flower. Do I need a macro lens? Which macro lens should I get?

 

[AvianStewardess]

The minimum focus distance for that lens is 1.2 meter (nearly 4 feet). Something so small as a flower probably would be difficult to get in focus with that lens, but it can be done in the right scenario. A macro lens would certainly make it easier. As for which, that calls into play your budget, and that isn't mentioned. Canon has a number of them. I own the EF 100MM F2.8L IS USM, and rented for a week the 65mm. The 65mm is a true macro lens, no focus - you move to/from the object to achieve focus - and has its own learning curve - but learning the techniques needed for this lens would help in any macro situation. My 100 is awesomeness and I could spend hours giving compliment after compliment about it until I get to its weight - too heavy - and that's my only complaint about it. Hope my input is helpful to you.

 

[snowbear]

If you are shooting wide open, the DoF is going to decrease. Increasing the magnification will also decrease the DoF. Try closing down the aperture a bit and use a tripod when possible.