I'm looking at this lens and it sounds like a great value considering it's under $300. I've got a Sigma 150mm Macro and it's a great lens but I thik I would like something wider. However the front element of the Nikon 40mm is only 3.5cm away from the subject at its minimum focusing distance and shadowing would be an issue. I'm thinking a diffuser would eliminate shadows in most situations and I guess front light is rarely ideal anyway so it may not be an issue at all. Any thoughts?
Posted by Rick Cloran on March 22, 2014 at 11:19 AM
Bruce, What are you planning on using the lens for? If it is inanimate flowers and fungi only and primarily so that you can get a different perspective, then the lighting issue you mention becomes a primary consideration. Keep in mind that going wider also brings more BG into play, so more things to watch for as possible problems e.g., OOF highlights, etc.
if you were thinking of using it on animate subjects, outside of a slug you will probably be well within their flight or fight zone. In either case your proximity to the subject will affect their behavior. I would stick with the Sigma 150 macro if you are primarily doing animate subjects.
Posted by Bruce King on March 22, 2014 at 12:37 PM
Thanks Rick. 95% of the time it will be floral shots but I will be hunting early morning dragon flies in a few months. I'm keeping the 150, the 40 would be an addition to my arsenal.
Posted by Rick Cloran on March 22, 2014 at 6:59 PM
Bruce, for flowers the 40 will work, just watch for the added BG issues the wider angle will bring into play. Early enough and the distance shouldn't be an issue for the dragonflies either as they will still be torpid after the cool of the night.
As for the lighting side of the question, check out the Promaster Flexible Arm Macro Light. It is powered by a couple of small lithium CR2025 batteries and uses LEDs on the ends of two flexible necks to let you put light where you want it. It mounts on your hot shoe and is constant light, not flash, so you will see what you are getting. Short money, about $30 and has two intensity settings.
Discussion
3 repliesif you were thinking of using it on animate subjects, outside of a slug you will probably be well within their flight or fight zone. In either case your proximity to the subject will affect their behavior. I would stick with the Sigma 150 macro if you are primarily doing animate subjects.
As for the lighting side of the question, check out the Promaster Flexible Arm Macro Light. It is powered by a couple of small lithium CR2025 batteries and uses LEDs on the ends of two flexible necks to let you put light where you want it. It mounts on your hot shoe and is constant light, not flash, so you will see what you are getting. Short money, about $30 and has two intensity settings.