soapnstuf031251 Loc: Knoxville, TN

how do I use my macro lens? Do I remove my 18-55mm lens, or do I just attach it to the lens. I did the later and I got some decent shots, but I don't know if I did the right procedure or not. I also have a fish eye lens and although I took pictured with it, I still don't know how to use the lenses. Can someone out there explain this to me. I purchased my lenses off eBay specifically for my camera. They
are not a Canon brand of lens. I purchased the Xsi Companion book,
but it doesn't go into a lot of detail from scanning the index and checking it out. Thanks for your help. Soap'n'Stuff :-)

SteveG Loc: Norh Carolina

What type of macro do you have? Is it an entire dedicated macro lens, like your 18-55mm, that you replace your kit lens with or, do you have the type that screws on the front like a filter?

soapnstuf031251 Loc: Knoxville, TN

I screwed it on the front like a filter, not knowing for sure if I was suppose to do that or not. I took some close ups of a johnny jump up flower with a small green spider on it. Unfortunately the spider moved and I only got part of him. I was hoping that the lens was supposed to be a screw on. Now, come to think about it, I did do it right...I think, because it does not have the same attachment as my camera lens has. Problem solved for now.
Do you have any tips when shooting with my macro or my fish eye? I don't know what brand it is, but I know its not a Canon.
Should I have it on auto focus, or what should position should I put my camera on?
I live in Tn. but I'm spending the holidays in Ga. so I can't post my pictures. I'm just learning that I should take several pictures instead of just one or two. Thanks for the advice. Patti Mc :-)

SteveG Loc: Norh Carolina

With the XSi you have live view. It comes in real handy for macro shots. The best thing for macro is to; 1. Use a tripod. 2. Engage the "live view". 3. Use Manual focus. Make sure you have sufficient lighting. The on-board camera flash will not be that good for this particular set up because it will probably cast a shadow from the lens but you can try it. If you have another flash for the hot shoe or a ring flash that would also mount on the front of the lens, that will be best. Of course, that is if you need a flash in the first place. And the beauty with digital, take a LOT of shots! You can delete whatever you don't like. Let me know how this helps and I will be glad to help you with any further guidance!

soapnstuf031251 Loc: Knoxville, TN

Thank you so much for your input. At the present time I only have the one flash that is part of the camera. I really like the close up effect that I get from the macro lens. I've used it on some flowers and I'd like to get a fresh perspective of the insect world. I love nature, and I think I'd like to find some wild moss or mushrooms to get close ups on.
Since I dig the old barns, old cemeteries and old churches, what would be the best way to shoot them? The only other lens I have is the 18-55mm lens that came as a kit. I haven't tried the aperture settings because I'm not sure what to do. I guess if all else fails, I should continue to read my Xsi Companion Book. I also have the Xsi Book for Dummies. Again, Thanks for you suggestions.
Patti Mc :-)

SteveG Loc: Norh Carolina

I love old barns too! There are so many ways you can photograph them. At sunrise, sunset, in snow, in the fall. The options are as endless as your imagination! Just go out and shoot them in all kinds of situations. Use all different kinds of settings and observe the different effects and see which ones "hit" you the best. If you don't have enough light, you can use a tripod, or up the ISO. The XSi is pretty noise free all the up to 1600 and 800 to be safe. Put it in your frame close up, or from far away. Try to use the "Rule of Thirds." And remember, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

soapnstuf031251 Loc: Knoxville, TN

Thanks for the great tips. I used to have a small tripod around the house, but I think I lost it someplace within my moving over the years. I read up on tripods and I was absolutely amazed at the prices. I'd like a fairly good one, but I don't want to spend a lot of $$ at this time.
When shooting in manual, how do I set it? I'm not quite sure abiut thr aperture yet. i have an Olympus point & shoot Camedia 589 Zoom
There is no comparison.

Clamatis


Cardinal Flower

SteveG Loc: Norh Carolina

You can get a decent tripod and not spend a lot of money. Check out eBay or any store. You will probably not want to look at the carbon fiber ones for their cost but aluminum one are just fine too. Now as far as your statement concerning aperture, and manual shooting, can you explain a little further as to what you mean by "how do you set it?" Are you referring to the actual settings on the camera and how you actually use them or are you referring to the best time to use manual and the such?