Time to take things to the next level
May 14, 2013 22:37:48 #
I purchased a Canon T3I about 9 months ago. I have been reading this site and books and working to learn the proper techniques to use. I think I am ready to look at buying a lens to take things to the next level. I have been researching macro lenses as I find I really like that type of photography. I have been using my telephoto kit lens Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS for close-up shots. Doing my research I think this is a good lens for telephoto and close-up. That said I am looking at two Macro lens = Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro USA around $419 and = EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Autofocus Lens USA around $549. I think both would also do well for portraits. Which one would you recommend and is the 100mm worth the difference? As with most folks this is a hobby and cost is always and issue.
May 14, 2013 23:33:59 #
Also look at the Tokina 100mm I know if it was available for Pentax that would be the one I would get. The 100mm gives you a better working distance than the 60mm and is the proffered length of most of the insect macro folks on here.
May 14, 2013 23:47:18 #
Thanks, I will give them a look. Viewed some of your photos. I would be happy if someday I can come close to taking photos like that. :)
May 15, 2013 00:18:21 #
AL-Digital wrote:
Practice practice and more practice over the last 3 years I have taken close to 30,000 macro shots. What part of Bama you from?Thanks, I will give them a look. Viewed some of your photos. I would be happy if someday I can come close to taking photos like that. :)
May 15, 2013 01:09:09 #
I strongly recommend that you read each and every thread listed here: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-22447-1.html
Several excellent macro lenses manufactured by several companies are used by more than a dozen accomplished macro-photographers on this forum. Ask specific questions, and you will get direct, honest answers.
Several excellent macro lenses manufactured by several companies are used by more than a dozen accomplished macro-photographers on this forum. Ask specific questions, and you will get direct, honest answers.
May 15, 2013 09:50:28 #
You might also consider a used macro lens. There are many excellent used lenses for a lot less than the cost of a new lens.
Craigslist can be a great place to start because you can see the product - and try it out - before purchasing.
Craigslist can be a great place to start because you can see the product - and try it out - before purchasing.
May 15, 2013 11:12:25 #
I live near Centre Al in Cherokee County. I don't know if could get 10,000 shots in a year as my day job (Healthcare IT) keeps be pretty busy but when I retire I will see if I can get that many shots in.
May 15, 2013 11:46:06 #
AL-Digital wrote:
That 10,000 a year is just my macro add in another 5,000 or so of other pics.I live near Centre Al in Cherokee County. I don't know if could get 10,000 shots in a year as my day job (Healthcare IT) keeps be pretty busy but when I retire I will see if I can get that many shots in.
May 15, 2013 12:53:17 #
gym wrote:
Several years ago, I paid US$400 for a used Nikkor 105D (A-F, but no VR). You might also consider a used macro lens.
Two years ago, I sold the 105D for $400, and purchased a used Nikkor 105G for $800 (A-F + VR).
May 15, 2013 14:03:40 #
I would think about what type of macro photography you wish to do. A 60mm at 1:1 will put you right on top of your sub. Murphy's Law says: "If it flies, it will do so, right when you are almost in focus".
A 100mm will give you more working distance.
The other thing you'll want to decide: Do I need image stabilization? Some brands will not have this feature.
A 100mm will give you more working distance.
The other thing you'll want to decide: Do I need image stabilization? Some brands will not have this feature.
May 15, 2013 20:20:59 #
having had both lenses, well close, I had a pentax 50mm macro in my youth, I now own the canon 100mm IS, the WD(working distance) makes things difficult on the 50/60's. I shoot mostly handheld with flash and wouldn't go back. And I have the MP-E 65mm, the 100mm is MUCH easier to shoot with. There are cheaper options that are taking incredible pictures here on the hedge and on the internet. If you get the 100mm it won't be the weak link, that I can comfortably assure you. Looking forward to your pictures
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