Question about Macro

[Anita Lawrenz]

I’m interested in dipping my toes into Macro photography but not ready to buy a dedicated lens. I’ve been researching options and would like some recommendations on whether macro tubes or up close filters would be the best way to go?

[Robert Apple]

@uncagedbird They both work OK  depending on the Lens your using , you can also buy adapters to reverse lenses, used Legacy lenses can be purchased for sometimes the cost of adapters, I have a collection of macro lenses made for the 1970’s to current models, your kit info would be helpful too , camera make and model , we have folks that have used most anything around here and can give individual camera advice. One of my favorite macro lenses I bought at a salvation army thrift store for $15.
There are also some great articles on the sit here, just click the link MACRO LINK

[Anita Lawrenz]

Thanks Robert, I have a Canon R5II. Currently own RF 24-70, EF 70-200 and 50mm 1.4. I will probably try some nature macro with whatever option I decide to try. I don’t know anything really about how to use an older lens or what to look for in that arena. I’ll check out that link.

[Robert Apple]

Your 50mm prime would be the best bet to use a macro filter on. Other than that you can buy a number of adapters to mount other branded lenses to the RF mount which is what you camera uses if you don’t mind manual focus, that’s all I use in macro photography, and you will get varying opinions on that front, I will note I have won competitions and sold macro photos shot with 60 year old lenses, it is a deep rabbit hole going macro but very rewarding.

[Patrick]

This guy will keep you right

[Rob Wood (Admin)]

Go with whatever you can get cheapest on eBay – personally I went with a reversing ring, but I also got some macros because they were very cheap, both produced pretty good images if I am honest. Basically what will happen is that whatever you buy? Will give you a taste for getting into macro and you’ll go out and get yourself a dedicated lens.

This is just the way of photography brains work. lol

[Patrick]

I agree get what you can to see if it is something you can see yourself enjoying enough to go for a dedicated option , i use 105mm but if i am honest i still think i need ross’s 200mm version  , it could just be my fieldcraft technique is poor but at 105mm i still scare to many insects away for my liking.

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