insight on lens...

[Transitive]

I know a ratio such as 2:1, 4:1 are more optimal for macro lenses, however, can anyone give me some basic ups/downs/insight to shooting macro w. a telephoto lens.

I currently have the tamron 70-300 telephoto, which allots macro at 180-300... I am mounting this to a canon rebel, which I also have the 18-55mm lens for (of course).

I know it depends on my subject matter & distance, but is it possible to pull off good macro w. tele-lenses or would I be better off just shooting with my general 18-55?

I do plan on purchasing a macro lens in the future, and though it's not much, plan on investing 500 or so... any suggestions on a good lens in this price range to mount on my canon?

thanks in advance

 

[Marc-Etienne]

You really have to try a real macro lens! I started to get interested by macro using my 18-200 at 200mm. I got decent shots, but never the same reproduction ratio. The main thing is the sharpness. I can believe it every time I get my macro lens out. I use a Sigma 105. It is not the top of the line, but get pretty sweet results with it.
My only advice, get a macro lens and feel the difference, you won't believe it!

 

[Transitive]

yea, I'm totally set on getting one.. however, have an assignment due this week revolved around macro.

iyo, did you find your shots were crisper with your general lens, say at 55, or at 300?

I know, I know, just get out and shoot w. both, but would like some experienced thoughts on the subject prior to doing so, as I don't get my tripod back until tomorrow.

 

[Bios.]

Reverse your 18-55 onto your 70-300? Reversing Lenses for Macro Photography - Tutorials

 

[Marc-Etienne]

Reverse your 18-55 onto your 70-300? Reversing Lenses for Macro Photography - Tutorials

That would be great for reproduction ratio. My only concern is are your lens having aperture ring? Or it is all electronic (G model in Nikon). If yes, it might become quite challenging to get proper aperture.

did you find your shots were crisper with your general lens, say at 55, or at 300

I usually go for the focal length that allows me the biggest reproduction ratio. Like I said on my Nikon 18-200 VRII I was shooting at 200mm. Try it with you telephoto zoom. My guess is that it will give you the best results at 300mm.

edit: If you have a decent photo shop in your area, have a look for extension tubes. You can get them at reasonable price and if you are planning in getting more intense in macro photography later, it is a nice thing to have. What it does is that it bring your minimal focal point closer without any other optical device.

 

[tyler_h]

50 f/1.8 II is cheap and has decently close focus for "macro"

The advantage of a ~100 macro lens is the longer working distance (minimum focus distance on the 100mm f/2.8 macro is 0.3m to give 1:1. 1:1 on a 50-60mm lens will be a lot close and not the best depending on subject (hence the 180 f/3.5l macro for working distance).