Yes you can. You have to mount the lens backwards on the camera. That is accomplished with a reversing ring. Here's one for Nikon: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/37171-REG/Nikon_2657_BR_2A_Lens_Reversing_Ring.html There are limitations of course since the lens is no longer connected to the camera's CPU but it's an inexpensive entry to Macro.
With a cheap set of extension tubes between the camera & your 50mm you can. Here is a fig shot that way:
I recommend you do try it. I am personally using the reversal ring from nikon with my 50mm 1.8. It is far from perfect as there is no auto focus to be heard of, but it is exactly what you need if you have the macro itch, but don't have the $500+ to scratch it with. Here are some of my macro shots: Photos by Brian Gaideski: Macro Cacti Part 2 Photos by Brian Gaideski: Macro Cacti Photos by Brian Gaideski: The Bees
yeah, with extension tubes you can achieve macro... you just need about the 50mm worth of tubes. Mine were about $67 with contacts so the AF and aperture still work.
I have a macro lens and it does not autofocus very well at all. I always manual focus when shooting macro.
Laf! I prefer extension tubes over reversal rings because I do not like the idea of my lens' ass hanging out.
Mommy22 You have 4 basic choices for macro. All work and all have advantages and disadvantages. 1. Dedicated Macro lens. Advantages: Dedicated Macro lens, no muss no fuss and usually an outstanding portrait lens as well. Disadvantages: usually the most expensive choice. 2. Reversing ring. Advantages: Cheap and easy. Disadvantages: more potential to do damage to the back end of the lens if you are moving around. 3. Macro tubes. Advantages: Usually comes in a set of 3 different sizes that can be used individually or together. Great for moving around with for things like bugs etc. Disadvantages: More expensive than reversing ring. 4. Bellows. Advantages: Wider macro range from 1-1 and closer. Focusing is achieved by adjusting the bellows. Disadvantages: Not really designed to use with moving things like bugs etc. Excellent for static things like watch works etc. Good bellows will run about the same as Macro tubes or more depending on length and features. A tilt/shift bellows is quite costly. Easiest way to decided on the method you want to use with your 50mm lens is to know what types of macro you want to do and then choose the best option for that type that you can afford.
