Macro lens prices

hobsey

hobsey

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I'm currently looking at purchasing a Canon 180mm macro lens from the second hand market.

I was wondering, do the prices of macro lenses very through out the year? As in, do they they go for more money on the s/h market in summer and spring when the bugs are starting to come out?

Just asking as I was wondering g to buy now or later.

Thanks in advance.
 
If there are loads available, they prices MIGHT fluctuate a bit but if the things are rocking horse poo, grab one if you see one!
 
Is there a specific reason that you need such a long Macro lens?

The reason that I ask is that they are bigger, heavier and more expensive! Unless your subject is likely to fly/run off then the Canon 100mm USM Macro lenses (either version) will do a better job at lower prices. Naturally if you simply have to have the working distance then lenses like this are the best way to go.

Don't forget to try out the Sigma 150mm Macro before you decide.

P.S. Have you tried extension tubes on your 100-400 Mk2? Very nifty for medium sized insects that are feeling a little nervous.
 
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IIRC there's a Tamron 180mm macro too - might be worth a hunt. Their 90mm macro is among the best at that focal length so the 180 is probably up there too.
 
Nod said:
IIRC there's a Tamron 180mm macro too - might be worth a hunt. Their 90mm macro is among the best at that focal length so the 180 is probably up there too.
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I bought one of these as the reviews were good, AF is slow but then I only use it in Manual as most macro shots are. Was half the price of the Canon at the time.
 
JackBarley said:
I bought one of these as the reviews were good, AF is slow but then I only use it in Manual as most macro shots are. Was half the price of the Canon at the time.
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I've got the 90mm and it is a cracker.
A cheaper alternative might be extension rings, you can get these supprisingly cheap off ebay etc.
 
johnf3f said:
Is there a specific reason that you need such a long Macro lens?

The reason that I ask is that they are bigger, heavier and more expensive! Unless your subject is likely to fly/run off

P.S. Have you tried extension tubes on your 100-400 Mk2? Very nifty for medium sized insects that are feeling a little nervous.
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The chances of something running or flying off is very likely as it will be for bugs, butterflies etc.

No, haven't tried tubes on the 100-400mm yet as I forgot I had a set of tubes.

The reason for going for the Canon and not the Sigma is so I can use my 1.4 mkiii TC.
 
Have you tried a 105/100 mm lens. Most people manage to shoot instects with that FL and many Canon users go for 65mm
 
hobsey said:
The chances of something running or flying off is very likely as it will be for bugs, butterflies etc.

No, haven't tried tubes on the 100-400mm yet as I forgot I had a set of tubes.

The reason for going for the Canon and not the Sigma is so I can use my 1.4 mkiii TC.
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Perhaps give the 100-400 + tubes a go before you decide?

I am, in no way, trying to put you off a long macro lens as I want one too, but I have found that I don't really need one. That does not mean that I don't want one though!
 
What is it you are wanting to photograph exactly ?
Do you want to get closer to the subject or use at distance ?
 
Graham said:
What is it you are wanting to photograph exactly ?
Do you want to get closer to the subject or use at distance ?
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A bit of oth really.

As a wildlife photographer I want to get in to photographing insects as I find that in the summer, larger wildlife activity tends to low down a bit where as bugs tend to be quite active at this time.
 
hobsey said:
A bit of oth really.

As a wildlife photographer I want to get in to photographing insects as I find that in the summer, larger wildlife activity tends to low down a bit where as bugs tend to be quite active at this time.
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A 180 is a fair size lens and imo you could do lots better with a smaller lens like a 90, 100 or 105 for example.
With a 180 the closest focus distance is much further away than say a 100mm lens.
I have a Tokina ATX-Pro 100mm lens and its a great lens and the price is good too.
 
alfbranch said:
Have you tried a 105/100 mm lens. Most people manage to shoot instects with that FL and many Canon users go for 65mm
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Agree a 100mm is a good compromise for shooting insects a longer lens is harder to use
Am talking about handheld tho with a tripod it won't make a lot of difference
 
Graham said:
A 180 is a fair size lens and imo you could do lots better with a smaller lens like a 90, 100 or 105 for example.
With a 180 the closest focus distance is much further away than say a 100mm lens.
I have a Tokina ATX-Pro 100mm lens and its a great lens and the price is good too.
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My point exactly
 
Ok guys, you've convinced me, I will give the Canon 100mm L ago and if I don't like it then I will trade it in for the 180mm. At least that way I have given it ago.

Now hopefully I might be able to find someone to do a straight swap for my 135mm f2.

Thank you all for the advice.
 
hobsey said:
Ok guys, you've convinced me, I will give the Canon 100mm L ago and if I don't like it then I will trade it in for the 180mm. At least that way I have given it ago.

Now hopefully I might be able to find someone to do a straight swap for my 135mm f2.

Thank you all for the advice.
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Btw no matter what lens you use macro of live subjects is never easy.
 
hobsey said:
Ok guys, you've convinced me, I will give the Canon 100mm L ago and if I don't like it then I will trade it in for the 180mm. At least that way I have given it ago.

Now hopefully I might be able to find someone to do a straight swap for my 135mm f2.

Thank you all for the advice.
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Don't forget to try the non L Canon 100 F2.8 Macro - not as pretty but every bit as good in the center of the frame where it matters and as cheap as chips these days. I have tried the L but, other than the looks and better sealing, I could find no advantage which is why I am still happy with my Canon 100 f2.8 macro usm. Also do try out your tubes on your 100-400 - just the job for perched Dragonflies :)
 
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