soulman1949 wrote:
I have a Canon EOS5D MkIII and (would) like to do (among other things) food, insect and flower photography. I've a number of zoom and prime lenses (including the EF 50mm f/1.4) but no macro lens.
1. I'm potentially looking at the Canon EF 50mm f/2.5 Compact Macro but I'm confused on a number of points. Firstly, looking at the spec the lens is described as producing 0.5X shots but reading the product description from one trader that states "Optional Converter for 1:1 Macro". Is this a separate product, as I'm struggling to find it listed in Canon's product range. What should I be looking for to get 1.0X magnification (I can't run to either of the EF100mm Macro lenses)?
2. Looking through Amazon, I see they advertise a couple of Canon Lens Extension Tubes EF12II and 25II. Am I right in saying these are a cheaper/starter alternative to a macro lens?
3. Also on Amazon they're advertising a "Metal Auto focus AF Macro Extension Tube Ring Set 13mm 21mm 31mm for Canon EOS EF DSLR SLR Camera Red 5D 6D 60D 600D 7D 70D 700D DC46" by XCSOURCE. Presumably this is a third party alternative to the Canon Extension Tubes. I realise there's a world of difference in price between this item, GBP19.99 and some GBP170 and that you get what you pay for, but does anyone have any comments on this item. Could I use this in conjunction with the EF50mm macro lens?
4. Finally, given what I'd like to be able to photograph better, is there any other product I should be considering?
Many thanks in advance.
Alan
PS can a teleconverter be used in conjunction with the EF 50mm Macro?
I've had Kenko extension tubes but I'm just about to start seeing if they work well (didn't have live view before and focusing was a pain). My impression is that the best is to have a dedicated macro lens instead of tubes, at around 100mm or more, with some way of getting plenty of light. A half way solution might be a close up lens on a telephoto.