bioteacher Loc: Brooklyn, NY

I teach biology and was interested in making magnifications larger than 1:1. I know Canon makes a lens, but this lens is much less expensive. I was wondering if anyone has had experience with the Mitakon Zhongyi 20mm f/2 4.5X Super Macro lens. Thanks.

LoneRangeFinder Loc: Left field

I do. I bought one for my Fuji. Please Understand this lens focuses only from 4:1 to 4.5:1. With a 20mm focal length it has an extremely short working distance. Practically, it’s about 1”-2” from the front of the lens to the object. The difficulty is finding the plane of focus and getting a light source on the object without shading from the camera and lens.

I don’t have any current pictures to post, but if you hold off a bit, I should be able to take a few showing the lens on the camera positioned with a coin....

The Canon lens you speak of is the MPE-65. It focuses from 1:1 to 5:1. The longer focal length coupled with the magnification range provides more working distance—and yet it still has a steep learning curve. There are some who use it with great success. My recommendation is that you get the MPE-65, rather than the Mitakon.

Tom (Tinusbum) on the UHH Macro section uses the MPE-65 I’m sure he can provide feedback.

Good luck

bioteacher Loc: Brooklyn, NY

Thank you