Macro setup help please

[steveoh]

Hi folks.

I'm after some advice regarding macro gear before I buy.

He we go:
To take good macro shots of insects I will need
A camera
Macro lens
Tripod and head
Flash or lighting
Insects
And?....? Anything else?

I have the camera and tripod, but is it a particular head for macro?
Also, I want to get a <100mm prime lens. I can see a Sigma and a Sony that fit the bill.
Sony here.
http://www.warehouseexpress.com/buy-sony-100mm-f2-8-d-macro-lens/p1013643&Type=1

Sigma here.
http://www.warehouseexpress.com/buy-sigma-105mm-f2-8-apo-macro-ex-dg-os-hsm-sony-fit/p1526838

Which one is the better of the two for what I want to do?

And what is the best way to light insects? Flash or lighting?

Thanks for any help with this..

 

[mike_6480]

Ring flash
e.g.
http://www.premier-ink.co.uk/photog...dium=product_search&utm_source=google-simple&


Probably don't need the tripod (unless very still insects).


Maybe also some extension tubes if you want to get even closer

 

[HopefulM]

a flash

however, you don't necessarily have to have all the above to get a good macro shot...

this is taken with a 55-200 kit lens + Raynox DCR-250, handheld : http://www.flickr.com/photos/fudgepuddle/5670169359/sizes/z/in/set-72157628797568685/

 

[heidfirst]

another good lens for macro
http://www.warehouseexpress.com/buy-tamron-sp-90mm-f-2-8-di-macro-lens-sony-minolta-fit/p1005205

if you are looking for a longer macro lens (greater working distance) then in Sony fit the 2 current options are the Tamron 180 & the new Sigma 150 OS HSM

The best way to light is with natural light if possible.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Macro-Rin...ories_CameraFlashUnits_JN&hash=item519037aa22 is the same ringflash as the Marumi just with a different brand name. There are however some reports that they don't work well with SLTs.
Other options are Metz & Sigma ringflashes & the Sony HVL MT24AM

 

[steveoh]

Thanks for the info Heidifirst, I've ordered the Tamron and the ring flash.