Picking The Right Canon Macro Lens

Mile

Mile

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Stewart
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I want to buy a macro lens but find myself not knowing which to go for.

There's the Canon EF 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM and the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM, both of which are in my price range. (Obviously the 60mm is more favourably within it.)

Effectively, I'm interested in experiences with either, drawbacks, and whether I would need the 100mm (i.e. would I just be throwing money at something I don't need?).

Opinions?
 
100mm is full frame lens with much better working distance. There is no real question between the two. 100mm is also great for portraits, etc and is very sharp and fast-focusing.
 
I used to have both, and they are both extremely high quality. 60mm is also very compact.

I tended to use the 100mm most simply because of the working distance - you get very close indeed with the 60.

I sold them as I'm not really into super-macro of bugs and stuff, more flowers and more general close ups. I now use my 70-200L 4 IS with extension tubes. Quality is still very high and I've got even more flexibility with the working distance plus the IS is helpful.
 
The Canon 100mm will be a lot easier for you to use at 1:1 due to the longer working distance as others have said, have a look at the table below , MWD (Maximum working distance ) is the distance from the end of the lens to the subject you will require for maximum magnification.

focusdistance.jpg


oh and it is a loverly lens also :) - Also to get the most from a macro lens you need lots of light so you will need some diffused flash also.
 
All the above absolutely spot on. The question you need to answer in order to ascertain the best lens for you is what you want to take macro pics of.

Flowers and non moving subjects not easily spooked - 60mm
Insects and easily frightened subjects - 100mm

Answer that and it will point you in the right direction.
 
To add to the above, depending on what you are wanting the Macro lens for, have you considered the Sigma 50mm or 105mm. We have the 50mm and it's a great lens, restricted for insect use as you need to be closer to them, but for plants etc, excellent lens not too bulky (still weighs / feels very substantial) and is a true 1:1 Macro lens.


Good luck with your search :thumbs:
 
Thanks all. I think its the 100mm then, because I'd be looking to mix it up with the subjects, doing both static and things like insects.

However:
Dogfish magnet said:
Also to get the most from a macro lens you need lots of light so you will need some diffused flash also.
Click to expand...
New term alert....diffused flash? What equipment does that involve?
 
Mile said:
Thanks all. I think its the 100mm then, because I'd be looking to mix it up with the subjects, doing both static and things like insects.

However:

New term alert....diffused flash? What equipment does that involve?
Click to expand...

Basically a flash with something stuck on the flash to spread and soften the light - have a look at this thread for lots of ideas .
 
Good choice on the 100mm Canon. Don't forget it's also a good telephoto lens so don't just use it for Macro work. Nice length for portraits as well.
 
I've ordered it now. Probably not the best time of year, what with all the holidays and weekends.

I'm enjoying building my kit up. Think it will have to be a light next.

EDIT: By the way, if anyone is interested in the Canon 60mm macro, Argos are selling a few on eBay for less than £240.
 
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