Umesh Bhatt

Since i took a macro refresher today (pun intended) here are a few of my thoughts on the subject:

• While a fast lens is not a requirement, the fast lens buys you extra fast focusing time, which is a good thing. Try shooting butterflies – they rarely stay in a spot for more than half a second (sometimes not enough for a sharp focus)
• When using an extension tube, you lose infinity focus.
•  You can really stack up lenses like this: Camera+extension tube+dedicated telephoto macro lens+reversed 50mm and the whole contraption still works (although i was crushing the flowers with the lens tip). I am sure other combinations work as well.
• If using a reversed 50mm AF lens, you will need to use that small lever on the reverse side of the lens to open the aperture with your left hand
•  A few people i know prefer to use a super long telephoto instead of a dedicated macro (some with extension tubes as well) – This combination gets you a better working distance (i remember someone using 600mm f4 lens and the working distance was at least 50 feet! – a great way to get those dragonflies)
• Using a reversed macro is like killing yourself – I had the whole thing on a tripod with focusing rail and focusing was still difficult. The DOF was definitely thinner than paper.
• My Sigma 105mm f2.8 looked like a puny lens – kinda shameful.
• I enjoyed using my SIMA SF 100mm f2 lens – This cheap lens produced the most artistic macro shots.