shall1585 Loc: Prichard, WV

I have a canon 55-250 lens that I got when I got my T3i. It came as a package deal along with the kit 18-55. I noticed today that it said "macro 1.1m/3.6ft" I know (or at least THINK I know) that it's NOT a macro lens, so why does it say this?

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

Unfortunately, some manufacturers add the engraved word "Macro" to lenses that are NOT flat-field, nor can capture at 1:1 magnification (life-size), which are both included in the definition of a true macro lens. This mis-representation is made to sell more lenses to those unfamiliar with true macro-photography.

Your lens will capture decent close-ups, which can be cropped to macro fields in post-processing.

Per Canon USA: Closest Focusing Distance 3.6 ft./1.1m (maximum close-up magnification 0.31x) Maximum aperture at 250-mm is f/5.6.

shall1585 Loc: Prichard, WV

Thank you. I had been reading about macro over the last several months, and through you guys here I had learned that true macro is 1:1 and that it can only be achieved with a true macro lens, so I was 99% sure that this wasn't a macro lens. As a beginner though, there's always that element of doubt about what do you REALLY know... Thanks again for your answer, it's very much appreciated :)

ianhargraves1066 Loc: NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida

Good Evening ,
Nikonian.
Theres a fella on the regular page giving out incorrect info on Macro and Micro. I tried to illustrate the difference so newbits are not misinformed however he may listen to you as the Macro King rather than me a beginner!
Heres the link.

http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-93894-1.html#1605796

Good night!

Ian