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Lens comparison for macro work

Started Feb 20, 2022 | Questions thread
Holger Bargen Veteran Member • Posts: 4,904
Re: Lens comparison for macro work
1

Dear Janer2,

all of the lenses you are considering to buy are fine.

If you are interested in taking photos of insects or animals with some flight distance, the longer focal length will be better. The second advantage of a longer focal length is the tighter deepness of field. You can isolate the object in front of a soft bokeh much easier at the longer focal length.

You have to accept that you need a little longer learning curve with the longer focal length. You have to find the object at some distance and keep the object within the small range of DOF. This is easier at smaller focal length. However, after soem training the problems will vanish and the results are worth it.

I have the 105 mm Sigma lens and it is a very sharp one. However, if I were you, I would take one of the longer lenses. The 180 mm lens is a very good one. The 150 mm seems to be a little bit more new design. I don't know, if it is better. I have a Pentax 200 mm f4 as my favorite macro lens. While searching for this rare lens, I had the Sigma 180 mm on my list, too.

Best regards

Holger

 Holger Bargen's gear list:Holger Bargen's gear list
Pentax K-5 Pentax K-S1 Pentax K-1 Pentax smc DA 55-300mm F4.0-5.8 ED Sigma 70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro +7 more
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