Nikon macro lenses

[Deneuve]

Hello,

I'd like to buy a macro lens for my Nikon D5200. I'm interested in photographing flowers, water drops, insects, all kinds of little details etc. I wouldn't say I want to have an overly expensive, larger/longer lens. I find it easier if I were closer to the object when I take a photo of it. Also, I am not sure I quite understand macro vs. micro photography?! I've read things about the two but what is in fact the difference between a macro and a micro lens?! So, anyway, after having read what I want to take photos of, what lens would you suggest (up to about 500$?) Also, is there a chance to find an unused lens on Amazon/Ebay, I wouldn't like to get a second-hand one. Or would I rather order something from an official website?

Thanks!

 

[tirediron]

"Micro" = Nikon-speak. "Macro"=rest of the world. There are lots of new lenses on eBay; it's a shame you don't want to go used as the Micro-Nikkor 105 f2.8D lens is a great bargain, and you should be able to get it for <$500 USD. That said, You may want to consider the Micro-Nikkor AF-S 40mm f2.8 G. I've never used it, so I can't comment on it, but it will be well under budget, and will even auto-focus with your body ('though that's not terribly useful in macro work IMO).

 

[Deneuve]

The reason why I'm unsure as to if I should go for a used lens is due to a not very pleasant experience with buying a second-hand ruined lens a friend of mine had, therefore, I'm usually hesitant about such deals. Anyhow, if I'm 100% sure of what I'll be getting I might change my mind. I'll look the lenses you mentioned, thank you!

 

[480sparky]

+1 on the 105/2.8 AF-D. No VR, but superb optics and well within your budget.

Downside: The D5200 does not have a body focus motor. So you'll be focusing manually. But 99.9% of macro work is manual focus anyway.

 

[AKUK]

I'd look for a secondhand copy of the Tamron Sp90 f/2.8 VC. You should be able to pick one up for around the $500(ish) region. Very high performance lens. For a fuller list of the lenses available for Nikon, check out my guide to macro. It will provide you with a range of options to suit your budget.

 

[Overread]

If you buy used on ebay you're protected by ebay and paypal these days so its pretty safe

A few more thoughts:
1) I would not get a macro lens for what you want that is under 60mm in focal length; and ideally I would suggest looking at a 90mm macro lens or longer in focal length. The length of a macro lens in focal length defines the working distance (distance from lens to subject - as opposed to minimum focusing distance which is sensor/film to subject). With a 40mm macro you will be so close at its closest focusing point that you will be significantly shadowing your subject and have very little room to get lighting (eg flash) in to light the subject well. Such macro lenses are great for snapshots and for general close-up work but not much practical use for normal macro photography.

2) Avoid any "macro" zoom lenses - they use macro to denote close focusing but its not "true" macro that the rest of the world understands (or micro if you're talking Nikon). They won't get anywhere near the magnification (the best get to half way but even then most can be a third or less).

 

[goodguy]

Shameless plug

Selling my Nikon 60mm 2.8G Macro well under your maximum price, if interested let me know.

 

[Mr.Photo]

Another great option for buying used is to go to KEH. They are one of the largest retailers of used equipment in the country, and they offer a two week return period for you to try out the lens. If you don't like it for whatever reason, send it back. They also warranty all gear for 6 months against defects. If you have any issues they will either take it back, and fix it or replace it if necessary.

 

[tirediron]

Another great option for buying used is to go to KEH. They are one of the largest retailers of used equipment in the country, and they offer a two week return period for you to try out the lens. If you don't like it for whatever reason, send it back. They also warranty all gear for 6 months against defects. If you have any issues they will either take it back, and fix it or replace it if necessary.

The OP denotes her location as Bulgaria; I'm not sure that a personal visit would be financially viable, and the international post probably wouldn't make the return trip within the two-week deadling!

 

[Mr.Photo]

Guess I should have caught that. That's what I get for trying to juggle posting on the forum while trying to baby sit a black Greyhound that showed up freezing on my doorstep this morning.