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Extension Tube Question & Tips
Dec 14, 2013 23:31:13 #
I have this Nikon PK11A (8)extension tube. Never working with extension tubes before, I did some looking on the web and found it is compatible with the 5100. The difference between the PK11 and PK11A is the A has cut-outs for the AF pins, where the non-A does not. As the pins won't make contact, no AF option. So does this mean that the PK11 will AF? Also...is it just me, or not? When the tube is on, the view seems darker than when off. Issues...or just me?
If I'm understanding this right, my focal distance should be shorter...right? So since the 18-105 FD is a minimum .46m/1 ft...I should be able to get a little closer?? Going to a model train show at the mall tomorrow and thought I'd try it out.
Any other tips you can think of for model trains? This will definitely be a first. Usually wildlife and scenics only. Have never even gotten this close to anything before, and took a photo. May never again...lol... depending on results.
If I'm understanding this right, my focal distance should be shorter...right? So since the 18-105 FD is a minimum .46m/1 ft...I should be able to get a little closer?? Going to a model train show at the mall tomorrow and thought I'd try it out.
Any other tips you can think of for model trains? This will definitely be a first. Usually wildlife and scenics only. Have never even gotten this close to anything before, and took a photo. May never again...lol... depending on results.
Dec 14, 2013 23:44:14 #
Dec 14, 2013 23:53:02 #
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Dec 15, 2013 07:24:12 #
Usually, one doesn't use the auto focus in macro anyway. You will have much more control over the location of the area that's in focus (not the actual depth of field) using manual focus.
Dec 15, 2013 07:50:58 #
Will you be able to get really close to the train models? If I understand correctly, focus is restricted to a very short lens to subject distance.
Dec 15, 2013 07:57:15 #
You may want to add a good portion of lighting to go with that tube...off camera flash if possible.
Dec 15, 2013 08:12:15 #
busted_shutter wrote:
If I'm understanding this right, my focal distance should be shorter...right? So since the 18-105 FD is a minimum .46m/1 ft...I should be able to get a little closer?? Going to a model train show at the mall tomorrow and thought I'd try it out.
If I'm understanding this right, my focal distance should be shorter...right? So since the 18-105 FD is a minimum .46m/1 ft...I should be able to get a little closer?? Going to a model train show at the mall tomorrow and thought I'd try it out.
The Nikon PK11A (8mm) extension tube will allow automatic focusing. On your 18-105 lens, it will give you higher magnification, but the increased magnification varies depending on your zoom focal length. At its shortest focal length (i.e., 18mm), it will give you an additional 8/18= 0.44x increase in magnification. However, at its longest focal length (i.e., 105mm), it will give you only an 8/105= 0.08x increase.
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Dec 15, 2013 08:35:38 #
Manual focus, off camera flash, and tripod have been mentioned. I'll add the suggestion to use a small aperture as the DOF gets 'micron thin' with the tubes attached.
Dec 15, 2013 08:46:03 #
Also...is it just me, or not? When the tube is on, the view seems darker than when off. Issues...or just me?
Not just you, with the tube on the camera the light has to travel further to reach the sensor, therefore will be dimmer when it arrives, (inverse square law, if light travels twice the distance then it is only one quarter as bright, losing two stops along the way).
Not just you, with the tube on the camera the light has to travel further to reach the sensor, therefore will be dimmer when it arrives, (inverse square law, if light travels twice the distance then it is only one quarter as bright, losing two stops along the way).
Dec 15, 2013 09:50:48 #
I love extension tubes, often preferring them to my macro lens. Take your time, add a loupe or a right-angle finder, and a ring flash (Inexpensive, LED ring lights work great.), and you'll have a ball. Oh, one more thing, shoot off of a tripod.
Dec 15, 2013 10:10:53 #
rdgreenwood wrote:
I love extension tubes, often preferring them to my macro lens. Take your time, add a loupe or a right-angle finder, and a ring flash (Inexpensive, LED ring lights work great.), and you'll have a ball. Oh, one more thing, shoot off of a tripod.
Does anyone still use a bellows for macro work? It acts like an infinitely adjustable extension tube. I had one years ago on which I used a reversed Nikon 24mm f/2.8. Incredible image capability but the usual lighting and depth of field problems.
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Dec 15, 2013 10:25:33 #
Good point. I always wanted, but couldn't afford, a bellows setup. Hmmm... That might be a nice addition to my Christmas wish list.
Dec 15, 2013 12:39:01 #
If you are going to a model train show I question why you would want to use an extension tube. What exactly are you going to photograph? I have used my regular DSLR with a zoom telephoto and a Nikon 1 with the 10-30 kit lens both with good results. Perhaps I was going for different shots than you. An extension tube is great for macro on a tripod and has a tripod screw at its base for mounting. I would never use this at a train show.
Dec 15, 2013 17:54:52 #
Extension tube will work but not very effective for a short zoom. A plus1 or plus2 diopter close up lens on the front is much more user friendly and effective .....and you lose no light and have good IQ if the lens is a 2 element.
Dec 15, 2013 18:37:46 #
kavitykid wrote:
If you are going to a model train show I question why you would want to use an extension tube. What exactly are you going to photograph? I have used my regular DSLR with a zoom telephoto and a Nikon 1 with the 10-30 kit lens both with good results. Perhaps I was going for different shots than you. An extension tube is great for macro on a tripod and has a tripod screw at its base for mounting. I would never use this at a train show.
Never used an extension tube before(hence my asking). Am under the impression my fd to the subject can be minimalized. Have also never done this type of subject before...close-ups.
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