Basic Macro Lens

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Matt
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I've never tried macro photography at all but I need to take some photos of some very small and detailed mechanical work.

I have a D750 body and am looking for starter lens recommendations. I don't want to spend much just looking for something with decent results for modest outlay.

Thanks,
 
As mentioned, there are various options in terms of extension tubes, filters (I like Raynox) and reverse rings. You could look at some of the older Nikon Micro lenses too. Most are 1:2 or 1:1 with a tube but are very sharp and often quite cheap on ebay. There are 55mm 2.8 and 3.5 and 105mm f2.8 and f4.
 
gad-westy said:
As mentioned, there are various options in terms of extension tubes, filters (I like Raynox) and reverse rings. You could look at some of the older Nikon Micro lenses too. Most are 1:2 or 1:1 with a tube but are very sharp and often quite cheap on ebay. There are 55mm 2.8 and 3.5 and 105mm f2.8 and f4.
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Technically the Raynox isn't a filter, its actually a lens (albeit, one you attach like a filter). I love my Raynox, and used one on a variety of lenses before I bought my excellent Sigma 105mm Macro. Its was sublime on my 85mm :) I still use it attached to my Sigma on occasions when I need really big magnification!
 
Another vote for the Raynox ... I use the DCR-250 quite a bit (and I have 4 dedicated macro lenses)

Definately worthwhile trying until you know macro is your thing.

Taken on a 50-135mm f2.8 with Raynox DCR-250 @ 50mm

18898754491_372ed7d775_b.jpg
 
Go for a Raynox, they are a lot easier to use than extension tubes for a beginner into macro photography. Macro can be tough, you'll only ever see the shot that got nailed of course, not the 200 fails besides
 
Have a look here as there are a number of possibilties for little outlay all of the above will work remember if you want the aperture and AF to work on tubes you will need auto tubes.

https://www.talkphotography.co.uk/threads/we-need-you-in-draft-want-to-get-into-macro.551944/

Also look at this
https://www.talkphotography.co.uk/threads/show-us-your-macro-rig.132158/

Macro can be addictive and very enjoyable but it is not easy however you aproach it.

Cagey75 said:
Go for a Raynox, they are a lot easier to use than extension tubes for a beginner into macro photography. Macro can be tough, you'll only ever see the shot that got nailed of course, not the 200 fails besides
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I am not so sure this is true really depending on how you use a Raynox it can be very challenging especially on a lens that extends when zoomed or focused. I have a couple of Raynox DCR -250's and tubes and macro lenses.

You can add tubes and a raynox to a macro lens to get closer still
 
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alfbranch said:
I am not so sure this is true really depending on how you use a Raynox it can be very challenging especially on a lens that extends when zoomed or focused. I have a couple of Raynox DCR -250's and tubes and macro lenses.

You can add tubes and a raynox to a macro lens to get closer still
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I am certain it's true, I have used all types of add ons for macro, tubes, reverse rings, dedicated macro lenses, bellows and add on magnifiers like the raynox. I didn't say it was simple to get great shots, what I said was it is easier than using macro rings. It is. Can you elaborate on why you think macro extension rings are easier?
 
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Cosina 100mm f/3.5 macro is a nice cheap macro lens often dubbed as "plastic fantastic". If you do end up looking for one, make sure you buy one with the "match macro adapter" i.e. a filter that's matched for the lens and lets you go to 1:1 (1:2 without filter/adapter attached).
 
Cagey75 said:
I am certain it's true, I have used all types of add ons for macro, tubes, reverse rings, dedicated macro lenses, bellows and add on magnifiers like the raynox. I didn't say it was simple to get great shots, what I said was it is easier than using macro rings. It is. Can you elaborate on why you think macro extension rings are easier?
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Watch this video from around 6 minutes about in Nick explains the issues
Nick #GardenersHelper may yet comment.

View: https://youtu.be/yErWf1NjMEM?list=UUmBgEwRDfiQMYTPORSzDxvw
 
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Cagey75 said:
Nice set up. I'm talking ease of use for beginners though, not best possible result. This kind of set would be considered advanced.

I have hand held lenses in reverse over macro rings, but I would not recommend that to anyone new to macro.
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Keith
That was the most extreme use of that set of components
Here is a simpler version different lens that has a minimum focus of 1.4m

The white card marks the minimum focus distance with the Ranox 250 on it

at 150 mm with raynox by Alf Branch, on Flickr

Here is a shot with that set up

Hover-fly by Alf Branch, on Flickr
 
Some great information here guys. This was exactly what I'm after to give it a go.
 
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