New lens (macro) for Nikon D3000

[Xein]

I'm looking into getting my camera back out and brushing off the dust. I've always wanted a decent macro lens but never really new where to start.

My camera is a good four - five years old now but it still performs well. It would be nice to upgrade but it does the job.

Any recommendations for macro lens'?

 

[Xein]

Ideally wouldn't want to spend more than about £150 but can spend a bit more if needed.

Used lenses don't is just as good as a new one as long as it has been kept in good condition.

 

[Xein]

What do you want to shoot?
All true macro lenses will provide the same 1:1 subject magnification, but macro lenses with a longer focal length achieve this at longer distances giving you more working space.

So for insects and animals you generally want the longest focal length macro lens you can afford, good examples are the Sigma 150mm and Nikon 200mm. the caveat being that they are heavier and more expensive, and clearly over your budget. For flowers and still life when you can get super close then shorter lengths are fine, so 60mm works without issue.

City shots, general shots when travelling, not looking for something too big and heavy to carry around.

Its hard to try and get the right lens without being picky

I'm a a canon user and use 100mm on crop

The only thing it isn't ideal for is really skittish insects
Some butterflies
Some dragon flies
If you don't need this 100mm is fine for me I wouldn't want shorter for bugs)

I also find stabilisation really really important. The hybrid system in my canon is so much better than anything else.
I doubt you would ever get stabilisation at that price?

My canon cost 500 but it's worth more to me. (but I think I got a good copy or they are all good)
The IS is worth 250 of that alone to me as when I'm on bug hunt.. I never have a tripod

That's not a bad price for the Canon to be honest, I wouldn't mind paying for a new camera but I suppose as mine does the job still its easier just to buy a new lens and stick with it for a few more years.