Curmudgeon wrote:
Want to try macrophotography on a very limited scale. Target will probably small lizards and insects. Primarily this will be an indoor project since 100 degree plus days are right around the corner.
Your probable target subjects, lizards and insects, move. For this reason, tripods, focus slider rails and remote releases are simply a hindrance as you need to be prepared to continuously chase your subject. If you try and use a tripod/rail you will just become frustrated and get worn out.
If you are lucky enough to get subjects that remain in one place for a good amount of time, sure use a tripod.
For indoor shooting flash is the best choice and very easy to use.
Curmudgeon wrote:
This is a list of what I have:
Nikon D7200, Micro Nikkor 60mm f2.8, Micro Nikkor55 mm f3.5, Focus Slider, Nikon SB 50 DX flash, a couple of old Vivitar zoom flashes, Four tripods including one mini desk size.
Camera and the 60mm f/2.8 are fine, but a longer lens such as a 105mm could be an advantage. But, start with the 60 and see how things go.
Your SN 50DX should be fine and could be used in either manual or TTL. It would be an advantage to fit it with a snoot and large diffuser that gets the light right up level with the front of the lens pointing down at around 45 deg. I'll post a pic of a simple idea that can be made if wanted.
For indoor critter shooting with flash you will be using around 1/200 (or higher if sync allows), f/18 to /f22 (for Nikon) at ISO 200 to 400.
Curmudgeon wrote:
Question: What, if anything, do I ABSOLUTELY need to get started.
Nothing else but the camera, lens and flash you have.
Start by learning to hold the camera steady and focus on the critical plane (eye/eyes). It's often useful to rest the front edge of the lens on something that has little friction and allows it to slide easily. Once you have mastered the sharp capture you can work on lighting.