Lens advice - 50mm

[cumi]

The speed of the lens, or the ability to do macro?

As you told before, you will need it for photographing toys, so the speed is not an issue...

 

[cumi]

Get a 50 f/1.8 or 1.4, and a set of extension tubes.

Don't want to hijack... but... What are the extension tubes?

 

[Rob]

Don't want to hijack... but... What are the extension tubes?

They move the lens further away from the film/sensor which makes the image bigger which in effect magnifies it. It's quite complicated, but here's a link:

http://xoomer.virgilio.it/ripolini/Close_up.htm

Rob

 

[markc]

As Rob said, extension tubes magnify an image by moving the lens further away. This enlarges the image circle that falls on the sensor/film, but since it is further away, it also decreases the strength of the light. You will lose a stop or two. If you have in-camera metering, the camera will adjust for it, but if you are using a hand-held meter, you have to account for it.

 

[cbay]

The F1.8 is the cheapest and to my knowledge the best for the price as a 50mm lens is always helpful for a EOS film or digital camera as its a great lens. I am just considering purchasing one myself to add to my gear.