1st Macro lens

I typically shoot wildlife and so use a zoom, but I have recently started shooting wildflowers (this is Texas and we have had rain!).

I would like to purchase a macro lens. I don't want to spend a lot of money as I don't know if this is a "phase" (even at my age).

I currently have: AF-S 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G VR and a AF-S 18-200mm 1:3.5-5.56 GII ED VR.

Are these sufficient for "really up close"? And I just need to go sit in the field and practice?

Or ??

Thanks for comments, thoughts, suggestions . . .

One option, if you don't want to invest in a dedicated macro lens, is to try extension tubes with the lenses you mention. Some lenses have a pretty close minimum focusing distance, and when you combine them with extension tubes you can transform them into full blown macro lenses.

Max

I agree with Max. I bought a set of Kenko extension tubes and they work great. You can always rent a macro lens for a weekend to see if you really "need" it or not.

Thanks Max and Andrew. I will try the extension tubes first.

If that doesn't produce the results I am looking for, what would be the recommended macro lens?

Hi Sharon. Not sure about the exact models for Nikon, but the 50mm or 100 mm macro lenses are usually considered adequate. Some people, myself included, go with a 180 or 200 mm macro. This lets you get even further away, but they're relatively expensive. You don't need VR for macro-it's better to be on a tripod. Most macro folks use live view and manual focus, so you don't even really need autofocus. You do need a tripod that lets you get really low. I like using a cable release, but the two second timer works just about as well to minimize camera shake. Go check out the flora photo critique gallery and you can see what others are using.

Hope that helps.

Sharon here's what I've found that works the best, at least for me. If shooting flowers or other stationary objects use a macro lens (currently I'm using the Tamron 60mm macro). With it's extremely short minimum focusing distance and up to 1:1 magnification ratio it does an outstanding job for less $ then the equivalent Nikkor. Now when photographing insects I always use a telephoto & TC with an extension tube or two so you have enough reach without getting to close to scare the bug away.

Back in my 35mm film days I used a Canon 100mm Macro. One thing I really liked about it was that I had pretty decent 'stand-off' distance to my subject. I used a handheld flash unit many times, so having some distance from the lens to the flower was important.

Extension tubes will certainly work, but keep in mind that the light loss will depend on how long the extension is. I also advocate the use of tripod, manual focus, a release cord, and mirror lockup.

Good luck in your search.

--P

Sharon, I've been down the path that you're walking. I highly recommend starting out with the extension tubes. They will work well with your longer zoom lens at it's longer focal lengths and as long as you limit your magnification to around 1:2 (1/2 life size on the sensor). If after 6 months or more, you find that you want to get closer, get a macro lens that will focus to 1:1. For flowers and the non-skittish insects something around 100mm gives you a decent stand off distance, excellent performance, and light weight. If you find yourself getting into more skittish insects, like dragonflies, butterflies, and bees, then getting a longer macro lens (that still focuses to 1:1) but provides more stand off distance may be your best bet. I use the Canon 100mm macro on a nearly daily basis, but it takes some patient stalking to get close to some of the butterflies and dragonflies.

Once you decide to get into macro (close-up) shooting after working with extension tubes then I would recommend the Nikon 105 f2.8 but if too pricey then the Tamron 90mm macro has had good reviews. Plus I would suggest you check out Mike Moats (http://www.mikemoatsblog.com) for he approaches close-up photography from affordable perspective with great results.

Sharon -
One thing that I didn't see mentioned is the issue of lens speed wide open. With the lens you have they will likely be f5.6 wide open for 100mm+ focal length. That will limit how well you can see your subject for focus and compositional possibilities. The Nikon 105 f2.8 micro would give you a much brighter image in the viewfinder and make your macro photography easier and more enjoyable. The Tamron f3.5 macro is a decent lens for the price and you may be able to find it used and save some.The Nikon f4 200mm is great but is probably more expensive than what you want. I would suggest you try and find a used Nikon 105 f2.8 micro lens. KEH is a very reputable place for used equipment https://www.keh.com/ , although they don't look like they have one currently available - but often do have the 105 f2.8 Nikon.