First attempt with extension tubes

[danbob6]

So, after reading up and watching lots of videos re: extension tubes, I was ready to take the plunge. As has been recommended on TPF, I purchased a set of Kenko extension tubes (12, 20 and 36mm) for my Canon T5i, using my 50mm f1.8. It's been pretty wet and cold up here in Seattle recently, so I turned my attention indoors to a bunch of roses sitting in a vase. I experimented with different shutter speeds and aperture settings. I experienced the 'normal' challenges associated with extension tubes (light loss, shortening MFD, small zone of sharpness and longer shutter speeds, requiring the use of a tripod), but overall I was pretty satisfied with the results.

I'd appreciate some C&C on these photos in order to improve.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Derrel]

I think these are quite good for your first attempts. my only suggestion would be to check into focus stacking if you are concerned about getting deeper depth of field.

even though these have the typical shallow depth of field associated with using an extension tube and a 50 mm lens, I think you made some successful pictures.

 

[danbob6]

Thanks for the kind words. I'm now off to learn about focus stacking!

 

[Dean_Gretsch]

Tubes will give you much fun. They change the game completely.

 

[danbob6]

I believe you, but right now they're giving me something of a headache, as I keep moving the camera and tripod to keep the subject in focus. Any tips you can offer on how you manage to keep things in focus?

 

[Dean_Gretsch]

The dof is so narrow, you have to decide what the subject will be and move the equipment until you get your focus. Sometimes you'll have a Bob Ross moment and a happy little accident will make your eyes go wide!

 

[danbob6]

I had to look up Bob Ross, but I get your meaning. Seems like I’ve had a couple of those moments while out with my camera. They do tend to make up for all the missed, unfocused or just ‘blah’ shots.


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[Jeff15]

Good stuff, I have used tubes in the past they are good fun...........

 

[K9Kirk]

Nice first set. Research and practice will get you to where you want to be. If I may suggest, practice focusing with a solid object that has a hard/sharp edge so that you can more easily see what's in focus. A pen or pencil tip, perhaps. Good job, keep it up!

 

[Derrel]

there just is not much depth of field, so
shoot at apertures of 16,22, and if you have it,32. make sure your subjects are fairly flat, or else you will need to focus stack, or be content with the very limited depth of field that comes with being so close to your subject. It is difficult -- you will not be able to "keep subjects in focus" to nearly the same degree that is possible in regular photography. Good luck in your macro journey!

 

[danbob6]

Thanks to all for your suggestions (solid or flat objects) and encouragement.

 

[petrochemist]

Thanks to all for your suggestions (solid or flat objects) and encouragement.

DOF is of course also helped by being square on to those flat subjects - though it doesn't always give the most interesting shots, a photographer will often align himself with the wings of a butterfly for example to get the most of the subject focused.

For flat subjects to practice on I recommend coins, stamps & banknotes (checking the legality of photographing local bank notes first - in the UK permission from the Bank of England is required, Euros have a blanket permission provided certain criteria are met, I don't know about the US)

 

[danbob6]

I like your suggestion re: coins, stamps and banknotes as a way of improving my skill with tubes, though they're not the most interesting of subjects.

 

[zulu42]

I like the shots! Maybe a little underexposed for my taste but very pretty.
Don't know if you use a focusing rail for your tripod, but I know it is maddening trying to make fine adjustments without one.

 

[danbob6]

I like the shots! Maybe a little underexposed for my taste but very pretty.
Don't know if you use a focusing rail for your tripod, but I know it is maddening trying to make fine adjustments without one.

Thanks. I’ve priced a focusing rail and see that good ones (that move forward/back and right/left) are somewhat pricey. I couldn’t find any used ones on Craigslist.


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