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Just giving macro a try
Mar 26, 2016 10:07:20 #
Could anyone point me to some affordable equipment choices Nikon style? Is there an inexpensive recipe for setting up a "go to" rig? I wanted to try macro to see if it is for me. I'm finding in my first few shots that lighting and stability are more important than ever in planning a shot. Attached picture is of my 28mm but taken on a D300 with my 50mm 1.4 on a used PN-11 extension tube. I was surprised at how bad my first 30+ shots turned out until I cranked up my flash.
Mar 26, 2016 19:03:13 #
Hi Digger. Whilst the gear that you currently have is not dedicated macro or close up gear, you should still be able to get some good shots with it. When using the tubes up close, your dof will be very small, so a tight aperture (F11-22) is needed. This means a fairly slow shutter speed & better lighting. A tripod is pretty much essential for this sort of work. A ring flash is a tremendous help. A lot of practice & trial & error will be needed to start getting some good results with what you have, but it can be done. Earl. :D
Mar 27, 2016 00:19:40 #
I suggest that you post your question in the True Macro-Photography Forum at http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/s-102-1.html
Many photographers initially attempt 'affordable' macro-photography with standard lenses and attached extension tubes or diopter lenses. Such make-dos are more difficult to use than dedicated macro lenses. You really need to just bite the bullet and consider a true macro lens, capable of 1:1 magnification without assist.
Most field macro-photographers prefer a macro lens in the 90-mm to 105-mm range, which allows a comfortable Minimum Working Distance. Feel free to ask questions a view the Macro Intro post to learn more about macro-photography. There is no need to re-invent the wheel. Learn from our experiences.
Many photographers initially attempt 'affordable' macro-photography with standard lenses and attached extension tubes or diopter lenses. Such make-dos are more difficult to use than dedicated macro lenses. You really need to just bite the bullet and consider a true macro lens, capable of 1:1 magnification without assist.
Most field macro-photographers prefer a macro lens in the 90-mm to 105-mm range, which allows a comfortable Minimum Working Distance. Feel free to ask questions a view the Macro Intro post to learn more about macro-photography. There is no need to re-invent the wheel. Learn from our experiences.
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Mar 27, 2016 15:02:52 #
Great advice and info in the True Macro forum here on UHH - some inexpensive methods- which I found and use - as well as the more expensive- like buying a true macro lens and the ring flash as well as a macro rail- which many can afford.
Nikonian72 wrote:
I suggest that you post your question in the b Tr... (show quote)
Mar 27, 2016 15:31:26 #
You guys are right on. I saw about an hour after I posted that there was a dedicated macro group - I thought I was in it. And so yes, I have been reading in there and biting the bullet on a lens seems the only way to go to do it "right." Nikon's 105mm is on sale this weekend in my area for $100 off. Like all things camera - will I get enough use out of it to justify the expense? I did find a reversal ring - used - that I will try next. And then Nikonian72 I followed you on Flickr this weekend. Haven't got thru all of your shots yet, but I am intrigued. Thanks for getting back to me.
Mar 27, 2016 15:32:59 #
Mar 27, 2016 22:22:24 #
Digger1 wrote:
The advice from Douglas is some of the best.Could anyone point me to some affordable equipment choices Nikon style? Is there an inexpensive recipe for setting up a "go to" rig? I wanted to try macro to see if it is for me. I'm finding in my first few shots that lighting and stability are more important than ever in planning a shot. Attached picture is of my 28mm but taken on a D300 with my 50mm 1.4 on a used PN-11 extension tube. I was surprised at how bad my first 30+ shots turned out until I cranked up my flash.
I would consider your image a success so, it seems you are well on your way :thumbup:
BTW, I believe that there are much better choices for lighting other than a "ring" flash ;)
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Mar 29, 2016 09:31:01 #
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