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  Q. Opinions on Best Macro Lens
           Asked by Stephen Davey   Donor  (K=631) on 3/2/2008
I want to buy a new macro lens for my canon 400D. But I want to hear everyone's opinion on what they think is the best macro lens out there. So far I'm torn between Canon 100mm macro and Sigma 70mm (which is 105mm in 35mm format)The MP-E 65mm is out of my price range otherwise I'd probably go for that.


    


Jeroen Wenting  Donor  (K=24628) - Comment Date 3/3/2008
There's also the Sigma 105 EX, which is excellent.
I own both their 105 and 70, but haven't used the macro capabilities of the 70 yet.
Both are very well built, and have excellent optics.




Paul Schofield  Donor  (K=4940) - Comment Date 3/3/2008
I had a Canon 100mm macro and it was a beautiful lens for macro. It was crystal clear, sharp and allowed a nice distance between subject and camera. On a 400D this would be the equivalent of a 150/160mm lens. However, mine suffered when used as a 100mm prime lens a little. The images looked slightly soft. Autofocus was also a little slow, especially in dim light.

I sold it for virtually the price I bought it (so they hold their value well). Whilst I like macros I dont tend to need a lot of distance between camera and subject so decided to invest in the Sigma F2.8 macro which is considerably cheaper.

As a macro I love it. As a prime, it makes a good portrait lens (on a digi) or a standard lens (on film).

I suppose it's horses for courses. Both (and probably the others you mentioned) are excellent lenses. If you need to separate yourself from your macro subject (eg insects) then choose a longer lens. If your subjects do not mind you being close then a shorter lens may be a better option, particularly if budget is a consideration.

Enjoy your choice.

All the best.

Paul




Paul Schofield  Donor  (K=4940) - Comment Date 3/3/2008
Sorry, on reading my reply I forget to mention, I bought the Sigma 50mm F2.8




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