Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

One point to mention is that almost all zoom lenses with a "macro" designation are really only close focusing, not true macro lenses. They may get up to 1/2 life size, but they are not "flat field" lens designs. There have only been 2 or 3 true macro zooms & they are all long out of production (and are all manual focus as well)

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

True. I have a Canon EF24-70mm L that has a "macro" function. Something like .70 or .75. I didn't buy it for that purpose and have no interest in using it as a macro. The lens is fairly wide and you have to get so close that proper lighting becomes an issue.

cactuspic Loc: Dallas, TX

I am primarily a macro shooter and have probably 10 conventional macro lenses from various manufacturers in all of the popular focal length. As prime lenses designed for a specialty market, most range from fine to excellent, even the much older design. I would not pay much attention to the lens test: while they may be valid for the lens performance at a distance, THEY ARE NEVER TESTED IN THEIR MACRO RANGE. In terms of usage, I prefer lenses in the 90-200mm range. They give you more working space between you and the subject, which helps with skittish subjects and lighting. The longer the lens, the greater the distance between you and the subject, but the greater the weight you will carry (and the more you will tend to pay).

I would not shy away from 3rd party macro lenses. As a Canon shooter, I cannot comment about recent Nikon macros. I have used older versions of the Tamron 90mm and the Sigma 105mm and they were fine lenses (newer version are probably even better). I presently use the Sigma 150mm and the Sigma 180mm (the new version is better than the older) and both are exceptional.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

My go to macro lens is the "Lester Dine" 105mm F2.8. It is an older manual focus model (works well with both my D300 & my D7100). It was made by Kino Precision (aka Kiron) & marketed to the Dental Profession by the Dine Corp (still in the business). It is considered a "cult" status lens. Mine came to me via my Father in Law (a retired Dentist)... I have several brands as well & all give me good results. I feel that results are more a factor of good techniques as opposed to gear...

smith934 Loc: Huntsville, Alabama

Ditto. I bought them both on eBay a few years ago, used, but in excellent condition. The 105 also makes a great portrait lens.

Brandmic Loc: Alabama

Tokina makes an excellent lens for macro 100mm f/2.8 and has much better reviews then the nikon. Only drawback is in the cheaper nikons it won't autofocus which may not be an issue in macro anyway. Read "Ken Rockwell's" review on it. New $400. My next lens.

gessman Loc: Colorado

Hey Bret... That sure is a great butterfly shot and I've enjoyed many of your other shots over time. You do get some magnificent images out of your gear for sure and that's obviously a fantastic lens you used on this image but would you show us your rattlesnake and black widow spider or maybe some bumble bee shots you've gotten with that lens? How close do you have to be to get a 1 to 1 with that lens? Thanks! :D

Brandmic Loc: Alabama

Will focus fine on cameras with built in motors D7100 etc. they make a Cannon mount as well. Supposedly it was developed by ex Nikon people. I have the tokina wide angle and it's s fabulous lens.

amehta Loc: Boston

So much for "Now that I've cleaned my system of my weekly quota of cheap shots." :lol:

Hmoore Loc: The Missouri Ozarks

I just got a 105 2.8 and have only used it for a couple of shots.

So far, it is performing far above my ability. I really like it.

gessman Loc: Colorado

Well, I'm honored to see that you have me on your buddy list and that you're paying attention to what I'm saying. :-D I thought that was one of my better cheap shots. Here I'm doing some of my best work and you're picking on me. :shock:

I had you on my buddy list but after two days I became exhausted, dehydrated, alternating between constipation and diarrhea, and a few other maladies also set in so I had to take you off but I am spot checkin' you and if I ever catch you making a mistake, or lying to these poor people in this forum, I'm gonna be on you like stink. :D :roll:

gessman Loc: Colorado

Jest aside, you are an extremely valuable knowledge resource to many in uhh. That's a good thing. I don't know where you get all your energy but you seem tireless and unwavering. :thumbup:

amehta Loc: Boston

I don't have a buddy list, my own watch list is already too much trouble. ;-)
It was a good cheap shot, unlike the other post which didn't have any, so I noticed that one.

I have made a few mistakes here, but I do try to own up to them. Feel free to point out any I missed. :-)

amehta Loc: Boston

It's not so much energy, just that I've made this my "full-time job" for the moment, while I chill out and get started with the next project. I've learned quite a few things which have helped my own photography along the way. :thumbup:

gessman Loc: Colorado

Well, you're an invaluable asset here, a great temperament, and the most prolific poster I've seen since I joined 3.5 years ago. I hope you don't suffer burnout. :thumbup: