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I am after a decent macro for my D70 as I find the standard 24-80 doesn't let me get close enough. What do you consider to be the best value for money macro and where would you recommend buying from?

Hi rdv,

You will probably find heaps of info on the various macro lenses if you use the search function.

I use the Sigma 105mm. I bought it off Ebay (posted from Hong Kong). This lense rarely comes off my D70.

I haven't used any other macro lenses, but would think the Sigma 105 is very good value for money.

A cheaper alternative is to use 'close-up filters' or 'extension rings'.

As suggested, the search function will help you to find lots opf discussion on this very topic.

I would (only) look at the Nikkor lenses, like the 60mm. They're legendary, and they're built to take punishment in a way that other brands are not. Yes, a Nikkor will cost a little more, but when you compare features, build quality, and then, if necessary, potential resale value, the Nikkors truly excel.

And please adjust your profile so that it more accurately reflects your location: "Brisbane" is simply not acceptable within our rules, so please be a little bit more detailed in your description, as it helps us to help you.

Otherwise, welcome to our forums.

Welcome to the forums.

you will find plenty of examples of shots produced with the various marcro lenses available if you look thru the forums.

Steve

Hi and welcome rdv.

I use the Sigma 105 and can not fault it at all. If money is not a problem then the Nikon glass is a good choice but be aware that it is not always the glass that makes the photograph, more the photographer

forgot to mention that after a period of time and meaninful posts,
you have the option of buying equipment from our patron.
Good pricing and good service

Steve

gstark wrote:And please adjust your profile so that it more accurately reflects your location: "Brisbane" is simply not acceptable within our rules, so please be a little bit more detailed in your description, as it helps us to help you.

Sorry about that Gary . Consider it fixed

Hi RDV and welcome aboard.

As sirhc55, Gary and just about everyone else here will attest, good shots are made by photographers, not lenses. Having said that, you'll still need some nice glass in front of your sensor and you won't go wrong with the major players, Sigma and Nikkor. sirhc55 makes his Sigma arsenal absolutely sing while any of blacknstormy's work will prove the Nikkor 105 Micro, in the right hands, rewards with magic sharp images.

Bear in mind, the focal length will effect how close you can get to your subject - 60mm might have you too close and scaring critters but be perfect for floral work or inanimate stuff. The 105mm area seems very popular while the 180-200mm region can get pricey.

Hey RDV, and welcome.
I use the 105 Nikon micro lens, and it is my best friend Takes wonderful shots, and lets you get close without having to get toooo close - sometimes I wish for a bit more (ie 180), but that's only occassionally.... best buy I ever made (thanks for ever and ever Birdy).
Rel

ps - Simon - thank you I'm not sure if I can get out of the office now, head swelling

I have the Nikon 105 micro too, it is a corker of a lens, no question. And of course you also get a relatively fast medium tele prime.

I use a 90mm Tamron... not as good as a Nikkor but it does an alright job for me i think....

Tim

I have the nikkor 105, which is a great piece of glass.
not to mention the medium telephoto prime function also.

I believe the micro nikkor 60 is a tad sharper than the 105 but the 105 has that extra reach allowing for closeups without geting into the subjects face.

right now I am considering some extension tubes also to allow for more magnification of closeup subjects.

I also have some closeup lenses which are attach just like filters to the front of the lens and allow for macro shots, although not in the same league as a macro lens. maybe you could try some closeup lens first to see if you really want to buy a macro lens?

Steve

Zeeke wrote:I use a 90mm Tamron... not as good as a Nikkor but it does an alright job for me i think....

Tim

I'd actually disagree with that. I tried a 90mm Tamron back to back with my 60mm micro and it compared very favourably.
Nobody inside at my friends place could tell the difference between them without looking at the exif info.

I know.. there isnt a whole lot of difference.. if you know your way around a macro lense.. they should perform to there strongest all the time cept to user error.. great lens for the money

Tim

If you want it cheap, get a magnifying glass!


[100mm MF E series + magnifying glass mounted in Cokin hood]