I want to try macro with my Canon 20D....

XysteR · 6 Oct 2007 at 19:09

Hi all,

I use a Canon EOS 20D along with a Canon 24-70mm L series lens. I love the lens, i use it for a whole manner of different subjects and it does have small macro capability, but lately i've been thinking about trying my hand with closer, more magnified macro shots. What would be the best thing to use with my current setup to get in closer? Someone mentioned i could use rings between the lens and body? Can someone explain how this works and if its a good idea?

I know the Canon 100mm macro lenses are lovely too but i can't afford to buy one at the minute. It'll be early next year by the time i get around to getting one.

yak.h'cir · 6 Oct 2007 at 19:40

You can use extension tubes with a standard lens to give it more macro ability. I've not tried this with a non macro lens so I don't know how well it would work...

Kenko make a nice set weighing in at just under 100 pounds if I remember correctly. They work by reducing the minimum focasing distance of the lens which allows you to get closer to the subject.

XysteR · 6 Oct 2007 at 19:45

Cool thanks for that, thats put some light on things... I've just noticed about the possibilities of reversing the lens too. Now i really don't know what to try lol

yak.h'cir · 6 Oct 2007 at 19:50

I've heard of a few people reversing a 50mm f1.8 onto another lens. That gives very high magnification but i'm not sure what the quality is like. I think the best bet is to try tubes, next step get the 100mm macro. The macro lens works well with the tubes to give you 2:1 magnification which is pretty close.

robertgilbert86 · 6 Oct 2007 at 19:56

I've had success with a 50mm and manual extension tubes (£12).
With Nikon at least you need a lens with an aperture ring though or the lens will stay on the smallest aperture (highest f number).
The auto tubes can be had for more like £70 if you look around.

XysteR · 6 Oct 2007 at 20:49

Ok extention tubes it is, this way i can use them now with my 24-70 and with the 100mm macro when i get it.

I'm assuming auto tubes allow autofocus to work? Is there any point having autofocus with macro? or do you mean to allow changing the lens focal ratio?

XysteR · 6 Oct 2007 at 21:38

Imagine seeing this face in a dark alley lol! Who spiked me? Well, its nearly a macro. Can't resist messing about. I can get a lot closer come to think of it so i'm looking for another subject