Best macro (micro) lens for crop sensor camera
Mar 3, 2019 11:19:24 #
I am just getting into Macro photography. I shoot w/ a Nikon D-500. What would be the best nikkor micro lens to start with. Primarily bugs and flowers
Mar 3, 2019 11:34:08 #
Can't speak to 'best' but the most popular macros are the ones in the 90-105mm range.
They are all f/2.8 and this is the Nikon version: Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105G, cost around $850, other less expensive options include: Tokina AT-X 100mm f/2.8 PRO D Macro Lens for Nikon for around $350, or Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG Macro Lens for Nikon for around $570.
They are all f/2.8 and this is the Nikon version: Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105G, cost around $850, other less expensive options include: Tokina AT-X 100mm f/2.8 PRO D Macro Lens for Nikon for around $350, or Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG Macro Lens for Nikon for around $570.
Mar 3, 2019 11:46:08 #
Don't overlook the Nikkor 200mm f4 macro, very sharp, but heavier than others and not cheap.
I have been using mine since 2008 starting on a D300 , D7100 , D800 and now on a D810, Glad I spent the money, never regretted it . Never needed the 2.8.
I have been using mine since 2008 starting on a D300 , D7100 , D800 and now on a D810, Glad I spent the money, never regretted it . Never needed the 2.8.
Mar 3, 2019 11:53:31 #
Manglesphoto wrote:
Don't overlook the Nikkor 200mm f4 macro, very sharp, but heavier than others and not cheap.
I have been using mine since 2008 starting on a D300 , D7100 , D800 and now on a D810, Glad I spent the money, never regretted it . Never needed the 2.8.
I have been using mine since 2008 starting on a D300 , D7100 , D800 and now on a D810, Glad I spent the money, never regretted it . Never needed the 2.8.
Started with the 105mm micro then added the 200mm f4. Both excellent lenses. The 200mm is a jewel.
Mar 3, 2019 12:21:03 #
I almost bought the 105 but decided I didn't Need an f2.8 and I did need the extra focus distance.
Mar 3, 2019 12:23:30 #
One advantage of the longer macro is that you will get the same 'magnification' at a longer working distance. This can be a significant advantage for flighty insects. Of course there are pros and cons for every choice you make. The longer lens is heavier, and 'hand shake' will translate to more blurring effects on the sensor. But that challenge can be met as long as you attend to it.
Mar 3, 2019 16:06:22 #
ottercreek
Loc: Southwest Ohio
Manglesphoto wrote:
Don't overlook the Nikkor 200mm f4 macro, very sharp, but heavier than others and not cheap.
Mar 3, 2019 16:20:59 #
Mar 3, 2019 16:46:23 #
Manglesphoto wrote:
The 200mm is excellent but I don't think I would recommend it for someone just starting in macro.Don't overlook the Nikkor 200mm f4 macro, very sharp, but heavier than others and not cheap.
As one of my friends in the True Macro group once said "Shooting with a 180mm (or 200mm) macro is like shooting through a straw".
I shoot with a 180mm and macros in that mm range make it very difficult to locate the subject.
The angle of view is very small and if you are even a bit off on the focus you will not even see the subject.
I've been using my 180mm for two years and I still struggle at times.
Mar 3, 2019 16:54:36 #
ottercreek
Loc: Southwest Ohio
I used the Nikkor 105 micro for 15 yrs or more and switching to the 200 micro since its inception made, for me, macro work so much easier and my results far better (such as they are!). I offer several posts at uhh with the results. Granted, it ain't cheap!
Mar 3, 2019 17:04:49 #
rwilson1942 wrote:
I concur! The 200mm is excellent but I don't think I would recommend it for someone just starting in macro.
I have no experience with other makes, but I doubt anyone could go wrong with the Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G micro. It focuses very fast and the VR works very well. It is also as sharp as they get.
Mar 3, 2019 19:40:15 #
My first macro lens was a Nikkor 55mm, purchased in 1972. I purchased a used Nikkor 105D (A-F but no VR) in 2010, then a used Nikkor 105G (A-F + VR) a few years later, and now I use a Sigma 105mm macro.
Used lenses are quite affordable, and macro-photographers tend to baby their macro lenses, so macros in excellent condition can be found on eBay, etc. I recommend the 90mm to 105mm range as your first macro. You can always sell it when you decide to upgrade.
Used lenses are quite affordable, and macro-photographers tend to baby their macro lenses, so macros in excellent condition can be found on eBay, etc. I recommend the 90mm to 105mm range as your first macro. You can always sell it when you decide to upgrade.
Mar 4, 2019 08:06:14 #
John Maher
Loc: Northern Virginia
I am preparing to do plants this spring and will re-purpose my old AIS f4 105 mm micro on my D5600. Will have to use with a light meter and manual focus.
Heavy, all metal, but great glass. Plants are stationary, but some bugs move more than others.
Heavy, all metal, but great glass. Plants are stationary, but some bugs move more than others.
Mar 4, 2019 08:48:09 #
Brand name really doesn't matter much. Optically, they all deliver if you do your part. Some may be slightly better constructed and hold resale value better. I have nine different Nikkor, Sigma, Tamron and other brands of older manual focus macro lenses from 55 to 180mm in focal length. Some are AF, others are Manual focus. I agree that the best range is 90-105mm. AF & VR isn't needed and is ineffective as you get closer to life size. For other shooting, you may want those features. I own other lenses for those other purposes and thus use my macro lenses strictly for macro. My go-to macro lens is an older 105mm F2.8 manual focus lens
Mar 4, 2019 08:52:37 #
John Maher wrote:
Yes, but move with the slightest wind....Plants are stationary
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