EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM?

Hardrock · Apr 22, 2009

I use a digital rebel xt, I am curious about this macro lense. Out of all the canon macro lenses would this be the best macro to start out with or should I look at another model? Also I was reading that some people use this lense for portraits, would this be the case even with a crop sensor camera? Thanks again!

Big Mike · Apr 22, 2009

I don't think I've ever heard anything bad about this lens....except maybe that it's too sharp and shows more detail on people's faces than they want you to see.

I don't think there is a 'best Macro lens to start with'. Just choose the one that fits your needs and budget.

Yes, this can still make a great portrait lens on a crop camera...provided that you are not working in a confined space that doesn't allow you room to back up if you need to include more than a head & shoulders shot.

You might also consider the EF-S 60mm macro. I've heard that it's very similar to the 100mm Macro but it's more compact which makes it easier to keep in your camera bag.

matt-l · Apr 22, 2009

The 100mm is great! all internal focus unlike the Sigma 105mm. The 2.8 is greatly used for macro and portraits are very well done, even with a crop sensor as mine. Don't hesitate to buy this as the price may go up again as it has.

Chris of Arabia · Apr 22, 2009

The 60mm is an excellent lens for both macro and portrait use. On a crop sensor body, it works out as effectively a 96mm lens, which is an ideal length for portraiture, and as Mike says, it is also considerably lighter than the 100mm EF.

matt-l · Apr 22, 2009

Chris of Arabia said:
The 60mm is an excellent lens for both macro and portrait use. On a crop sensor body, it works out as effectively a 96mm lens, which is an ideal length for portraiture, and as Mike says, it is also considerably lighter than the 100mm EF.

The 60mm is an EF-S lens its just simply 60 on a crop as it's designed for smaller sensors.