Macro Lens Help

[joshua_]

Hello,

I'm still new to all of this, but I feel like I'm ready for a macro lens. I think it will probably be a month or two before I go ahead and get one. I'm just starting the process and would like to study up on what lens would be best for me.

I am looking for advice.

The most important thing I want from the lens is good macro images. I've read up on light and have even been doing some macro stuff with my current lenses and tubes. I would like to be able to use the lens inside and outside and with different lighting. I seem to like everything from bugs, to paint chips, to water drops, etc.

If it could work out that the macro lens would also be good for portraits then that would be a bonus for me, but it's not a make or break deal for me. I have the Nikon d3200.


So far I am most interested in the AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR. I believe it would serve my purposes and I like the price point.

I do wonder if something like the AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED would be right for me. I can't decide if the trade between the 2.8 and VR is worth it, plus the difference in 60-85. It is still in a similar price range to the 85mm.

The two above seem to be what I'm considering most, but I do want to be sure to explore different options before deciding.

A few more in the next price range that I've looked at.

Nikon 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor Lens & the Sigma 258306 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens for Nikon


Just looking for opinions and suggestions. I'm happy with everything I have in my kit so far and just want to be sure to make a good choice here. I understand that a lot of the time this comes down to personal preference and price range. I'd prefer to stay in the price range of the first two, but would spend more if it's necessary. I'm considering renting a couple of them to see what fits, but want to see if anyone has any experience that may help.

Thanks

 

[cgipson1]

I had the 85mm for a while on my D7000, and found it to be an excellent lens. I do have images from it if you want to see them.

If you want to shoot insects... I would not recommend the 60mm. You have to get too close to them for 1:1, and it will frighten many of them off. The 100 - 105's and above are even better since you have more working distance.

One disadvantage to the 85mm is that being DX, if you ever go full-frame, it will cause issues. But it is an excellent lens on DX bodies.

 

[480sparky]

I like my 105 2.8D. It's "old school" compared to the G glass but it still autofocuses with a body motor and will easily auto exposure as well.

 

[Redeyejedi]

x2 on the 105.
however, not knocking the 105 afs, but i also want the old school 105 2.8 ais i think. reason being, optics were/are still great and if you later get hooked on macro, which you will, and bellows kit is on the wish list, which it will be.....the manual ring on the old school micro-nikkor makes setting up shots a bit easier.

 

[greybeard]

I have the 105 f/2.8 AFS and it is wonderful. Razor sharp and built like a tank.