Mathematically Comparing Extension Tubes to Raynox 250
Jul 1, 2013 18:37:53 #
I know that adding extension tubes reduces WD. I have read that using a Raynox DCR-250 will accomplish a similar magnification increase, but not reduce WD. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=275182&is=REG&Q=&A=details
On another UHH Macro-Photography Forum thread, a few Raynox 250 users posted their personal experiences:
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-130328-1.html#2206114
I found the below comments posted on a discussion website, concerning a Raynox 250 + 105-mm macro lens:
"The Raynox 250 is a +8 diopter lens. The furthest focusing distance with this lens would be ~5" with the base lens set to inf.
If you are only getting about 3" then you are probably setting the focus close (as you would with the base macro lens you are using), however, working with the Raynox style lenses tends to be counterintuitive in that longer focus makes them easier to use.
For the best DoF and working distance, always set your base lens to infinite focus distance, not close.
A quick mathematical primer on diopters: diopter is the inverse of the focus ditsance in metres and diopters stack by adding.
1) Lens at MFD = +8.2 diopter
with DCR250 (+8 diopter): +8.2 +8 = +16.2 diopter
WD = 1/+16.2 = 0.0617m = 2.43-inches.
2) Lens focused at infinity = +0 diopter
with DCR250 (+8 diopter): +0 +8 = +8
WD = 1/+8 = 0.125m = 4.92-inches.
The lens can be difficult to get a handle on how to use it because of it's close focusing and narrow DoF, especially if you are used to a traditional macro lens, but once you get the hang of it, use gets easier. I would read through some of the other postings here where there is plenty more info on how to use the lens."
http://www.flickr.com/groups/raynoxdcr250/discuss/72157632802779077
On another UHH Macro-Photography Forum thread, a few Raynox 250 users posted their personal experiences:
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-130328-1.html#2206114
I found the below comments posted on a discussion website, concerning a Raynox 250 + 105-mm macro lens:
"The Raynox 250 is a +8 diopter lens. The furthest focusing distance with this lens would be ~5" with the base lens set to inf.
If you are only getting about 3" then you are probably setting the focus close (as you would with the base macro lens you are using), however, working with the Raynox style lenses tends to be counterintuitive in that longer focus makes them easier to use.
For the best DoF and working distance, always set your base lens to infinite focus distance, not close.
A quick mathematical primer on diopters: diopter is the inverse of the focus ditsance in metres and diopters stack by adding.
1) Lens at MFD = +8.2 diopter
with DCR250 (+8 diopter): +8.2 +8 = +16.2 diopter
WD = 1/+16.2 = 0.0617m = 2.43-inches.
2) Lens focused at infinity = +0 diopter
with DCR250 (+8 diopter): +0 +8 = +8
WD = 1/+8 = 0.125m = 4.92-inches.
The lens can be difficult to get a handle on how to use it because of it's close focusing and narrow DoF, especially if you are used to a traditional macro lens, but once you get the hang of it, use gets easier. I would read through some of the other postings here where there is plenty more info on how to use the lens."
http://www.flickr.com/groups/raynoxdcr250/discuss/72157632802779077
Jul 1, 2013 20:02:52 #
Yes and No. You have all correct but for some of us the reason to add the DCR is for higher magnification. The closer the working distance the higher the Magnification. For increase of DOF photo stacking is recommended at the closes working distance. Maybe add Magnification for both infinity and MWD. Now add some extension tubes and WD is even closer along with magnification
Now to add a positive, if you can achieve focus with this setup, shooting alone with just the 100mm lens your keeper average/focus, exposure/ will increase dramatically. Close to 90% plus is not unheard of. It's like riding a bike, just comes natural.
Now to add a positive, if you can achieve focus with this setup, shooting alone with just the 100mm lens your keeper average/focus, exposure/ will increase dramatically. Close to 90% plus is not unheard of. It's like riding a bike, just comes natural.
100mm + 36mm tubes + DCR-250 at about half WD between infinity and MFD. DoF is okay, if Focal Plane is Good.
Jul 1, 2013 22:51:25 #
fstop22 wrote:
Well of course it is for higher magnification. The ideal situation is higher mag., but reasonable WD, like example 2) above.Yes and No. You have all correct but for some of us the reason to add the DCR is for higher magnification.
My Nikkor 105G has a MWD of 6.2-inches. If I can obtain higher mag. at 4.9-inches (as suggested above), retaining decent DoF, I see a distinct advantage.
Trial measurements should be relatively easy to compare with & without DCR at different focal planes.
Jul 2, 2013 07:36:29 #
I like the idea of a snap in lens. To go from 1x to 2x quickly depending on the size on the subject is a great advantage. But is the quality less? If you crop the macro image shot at 1x to a 2x size is it equivalent to the macro + Raynox shot at 2x or is it better? Can someone do a comparison using the same subject in the photos. To me an ideal comparison would be with a macro at 1x, a Raynox at MFD and a Raynox + tube at MFD. the next test would be all the above at the distance it would be for each to be 1x.
Jul 2, 2013 09:45:57 #
The Raynox is As Good as the lens you put it on.. I've taken thousands with it and if you like my macro you like the DCR-250. The only draw back as mention by Douglass is the closer you get the shallower the DoF.
jrb1213 wrote:
I like the idea of a snap in lens. To go from 1x t... (show quote)
Stacked photo using the DCR-250
Jul 2, 2013 10:08:03 #
fstop22 wrote:
Excellent stack.The Raynox is As Good as the lens you put it on.. I've taken thousands with it and if you like my macro you like the DCR-250. The only draw back as mention by Douglass is the closer you get the shallower the DoF.
Jul 2, 2013 13:34:37 #
fstop22 wrote:
Your photos are the kind that set the bar high, so yes I like your work. So now this goes in the wish list.The Raynox is As Good as the lens you put it on.. I've taken thousands with it and if you like my macro you like the DCR-250. The only draw back as mention by Douglass is the closer you get the shallower the DoF.
Jul 2, 2013 15:37:17 #
one of the photography magizines here in the uk done a review on the raynox dcr 250 would you like me to copy it and post it up, they spoke very very highly of it .
Jul 2, 2013 15:39:31 #
treslek wrote:
one of the photography magizines here in the uk done a review on the raynox dcr 250 would you like me to copy it and post it up, they spoke very very highly of it .
I would like that
Aug 14, 2013 23:57:57 #
Aug 15, 2013 00:53:36 #
I've seen amazing photos taken with a Raynox. Of course 95% of that is the person behind the lens but in capable hands it shines. A friend of mine at works wants to try her hand at Macro. I have recommended she start out with the Raynox. Not sure if she has decided to go with the 150 or the 250 but I am eager to see what she can do with it. As I told her it is minimal investment to get one's feet wet with the potential of creating some really nice shots. Worse comes to worst and she doesn't like it I'll buy it off her.
I look forward to reading your impressions and seeing your results with the diopter Douglass.
I look forward to reading your impressions and seeing your results with the diopter Douglass.
Aug 15, 2013 05:37:59 #
I belong to a local club here in central florida and have given a few talks on macro photography. Several of the club members have purchased the DCR-250 after seeing my results. For the most part, they are having trouble with the working distance, having not experienced macro as much as I have. After using reverse lens stack I found the Raynox an easy switch, but it is not for everyone.
Aug 15, 2013 08:43:19 #
Your results are excellent fstop. I understand the focal distance challenge. I should reiterate it to my co-worker given this has been a noted stumbling block for beginners in your camera club. Then again if I don't, perhaps a slightly used Raynox will make it's way into my camera bag.... ;-)
Aug 15, 2013 10:48:22 #
fstop22 wrote:
Well, if I'm ever out there, I'll try to take your class! Especially, I want to watch you do a hand-held stack.I belong to a local club here in central florida and have given a few talks on macro photography.
;-)
Aug 15, 2013 12:01:39 #
i have the DCR-250 but have not really give it a good try.i guess i will now!
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