vonzip Loc: cape cod

I'll 10-4 that Kp. I own one. vz

damage98 Loc: Tampa FL

No one has suggested extension tubes, but if you have a fast prime and you want to explore the world of close focus without having to add another 1lb to your bag it's an option. You can also get screw in macro lenses (filter thread) to adapt your existing. Surprisingly you can get good results.

ButchS Loc: Spokane, WA

A true "macro" lens produces an image that is equal to or greater than 1:1. In the camera world, it has become to mean just a "close focusing" lens. "Micro Nikkor" is just Nikon's "brand" for "macro". Though remember my first comment.

As far as to which lens is best... It really depends on what focal length is appropriate for the subject you intend to photograph. That said, most photographers use a 60mm lens. For DX cameras, Nikon has a Nikon 40mm F 2.8 G DX Micro Nikkor that is very good. I know 'cause I have one. (for DX, 40mm is the same as 60mm on FX or 35mm film.)

Thomas902 Loc: Washington DC

"...For DX cameras, Nikon has a Nikon 40mm F 2.8 G DX Micro Nikkor that is very good..." yep, I have this optic also... stellar, one of the very best DX Nikkors available... only limitation is it's close working range... makes it virtually impossible to illuminate your subject...

Best Option: AF Micro 200mm f/4D IF-ED Nikkor this has been an industry standard for years... I have this and use it for much of my commercial work... including beauty genre portraiture... The build quality is off the scale... it will last longer than I'll ever need... the screw on hood is a winner also... truly controls flare...

The working distance for the AF 200mm f/4D is 19.2 inches at 1:1 which is HUGE...
It's a steal at $1800... get it if you are a commercial shooter... you'll be glad you made this investment...

ButchS Loc: Spokane, WA

Get a Ring Light. There are many 3rd party ring lights for Nikon that are inexpensive.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/750879-REG/bolt_vm_110_led_macro_ring.html

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1123542-REG/aputure_ahl_hn100_amaran_halo_led.html

Real Nikon Lover Loc: Simi Valley, CA

Totally agree with Thomas. The 200mm is top shelf. I have a 55mm macro, 105 macro and 200mm macro. I will usually use the 200 for outdoor stuff on tripod. The 105 is really sharp and good portrait lens. My 55 is a 70s vintage manual focus that is razor sharp.

I am going to buy the Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED for taking slide and negative photos for conversion to digital.

You also don't necessarily need a macro lens. Below is a photo taken with my old Nikon D300 and Nikkor 18-200 f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX ED VR II lens @ 200mm 10 years ago.

You can't go wrong buying good Nikon glass.

uhaas2009

I have the tokina 100mm. On my 7000 body it focus behind on my 810 body right on the spot.

Mgofrenchy

A good "cheap" lens for Macro is actually the Sigma 105 F2.8. You can get it from $400 to 600 new (And less used).

It is an extremely sharp lens, with a good auto focus (but a tad slow).

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

So long as the subject is static, not much working distance is needed. Side lighting enhances surface texture and with a pocket flashlight like a Nemo “Lil Larry” or “Big Larry2” 10mm or so is plenty of working distance.