L.I.B.
M.R.DUCKS

I do a lot of "googling" but it never even occurred to me.
Guess putting the chill on spiders isn't as far out as I thought.
Thanks!
I'll post results.
:D :D

Thanks, Jack! Will do.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByYkSuY40AU&feature=related

For those interested in "The Touch of the Master's Hand" referred to above, this is the version I grew up with.

Thanks for sharing. Hadn't heard the "stove" version, but I like it.

:)

Have starting reading old posts and asking questions over at the Macro Forum. Thanks again for all the helpful response.
Rob

I'm slowly edging my way into the world of macro photography.
Haven't gotten far yet, but having a fun time.
At present I'm using a Sony Alpha 500 with a Tamron 90mm lens.
I have a population of about a dozen Crab-like Spiny Orb Weaver spiders who inhabit as many webs in a small enclosed screen room here in central Florida. Nice subjects for shooting but the time has come to clean house. I plan to catch and release in some back yard shrubbary.
Wondering if it would be practical and ethical to cool a couple of them down in my refrigerator for a hour or so and attempt some pictures before they warm up enough to get really active again. I wouldn't think this would harm them, but would appreciate suggestions from anyone who may have dealt with similar situations.
Questions about focus rails, flash units, etc. will follow, I'm sure, but for now it's just the question of "chilling" and relocating a few spiders. If I do try this I'd make sure they were fully warmed up before releasing them in the hopes that I wouldn't be scattering sluggish spiders as a ready meal for the many small lizards (anoles) in the area.
Thanks
Rob :D

Thanks for all the responses, leads, etc.
So here's a follow-up since several of you mentioned photo stacking.
While it sounds like a neat thing to be able to do, I have no interest in that particular game.
A focus rail was recommended to me for use in standard macro work. Interested in your opinions on this. Do you see the use of focus rails as purely a photo stacking accessory, or do they really make focusing for standard macro shots easier enough to justify the expense???
Thanks again,
Rob :-D

Once again I return to the source of so much good advice and information!
I recently got a Tamron macro lens for my Sony Alpha 500 and want to get a focusing rail for it.
Granted, you often get what you pay for, but with prices varying so widely I need some assistance. Don't want to buy junk, but also don't want to spend more than I have to on a "BMW" when a nice little Honda Accord would suite my purposes.
Can I expect to find a well build, smooth rail for under $150.00?
Any suggestions re: features, brands, etc. greatly appreciated.
Rob

That does it! Thanks.
:D

Basic question that I'd appreciate some help with.
My Tamron 28/300 (mounted on a Sony Alpha 500) has a small rectangular "lock" switch near the camera body. The instruction sheet is in Maine, I'm in Florida, and I haven't been able to figure out what it does.
Help!?
Thanks,
Rob

D.
Sony Alpha 500

Can I still hang with you guys? :?: :D

Erv's suggestion of employing a dependable "third eye" is a good one. I had expected, however, and really not knowing if it would make sense, that someone would suggest at least a partial solution in histograms.
Yes? No?

Ivan,
Nice pics and great memories. When I was in Southeast back in the '60's and 70's we called them wanogans. (sp?)
Still? Or is that name "gone like the MC cabby"?

This may just be the exception that proves the rule, but last year I had an extended and disasterous experience buying a pricey lens from B & H. From all reports mine was an isolated and not typical transaction but I will never do business with them again.
Not suggesting that anyone follow my example but this may be worth considering when doing business with B & H, or anyone for that matter.

Record the date, time and name of your first contact when you order and then ask to speak to that person on any follow-up communications. Part of my frustration in the "Great Lens Fiasco" was that everytime I had to call I got a different person; a total 7 before I finally cancelled the order.

Not much, but perhaps better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick until someone "real" comes along.
When I posed the same question several folks recommended the Tamron 90mm. I've had a good results with my Tamron 28-300 so felt comfortable springing for the 90.
Got it yesterday. Looks beautiful; smooth, solid, etc. but I haven't gotten a chance to try it out yet. I'll let you know, but I don't expect I'll be disappointed.
Good luck, and Happy New Year!
Rob

Great advice and insights. Thanks all!
Happy New Year!