What does it mean to "reverse your lens"

[yoodontknomi]

I am interested in shooting macro soon, and I often hear about "reversing" your lens.
I must admit that I am not quite sure what that means, or how I would go about doing that.

Any tips or information?

 

[Vtec44]

Here's a pretty good video explanation of it, YouTube - ‪Macro For Cheap With Reverse Macro Technique For Any DSLR Type Part 1‬‏. Be sure to watch part 2.

 

[Derrel]

Nikon BR-2A lens reversing ring. An excellent accessory if you shoot Nikon.

 

[Netskimmer]

Here's a pretty good video explanation of it, YouTube - ‪Macro For Cheap With Reverse Macro Technique For Any DSLR Type Part 1‬‏. Be sure to watch part 2.

The guy tends to ramble but otherwise it's a cool link. I am interested in macro and I am familiar with the idea of reversing the lens but I find the prospect of exposing the contacts and locking mechanism of the lens to the elements while a trek through the woods unsettling. It was, however, nice to see the technique in action.

 

[Nod]

As Derrel says, using a reversing ring is easier. Also, if you cut a hole in an end cap, you will open up the aperture fully and protect the contacts. I also epoxied a filter ring on the end cap and that way you can put on a front cap.