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Macro extension tubes advice/info?

Started 11 months ago | Questions thread
c h u n k
c h u n k Senior Member • Posts: 2,042
Re: Macro extension tubes advice/info?
1

BBbuilder467 wrote:

intothedawn wrote:

Hello, I am using a D5600 and looking to try some macro photography - mostly close ups of mushrooms, insects, leaves etc..

It seems that extension tubes might be the best bet to get started. I currently have a 16-85, 70-300 and a 50 1.8/g - I assume the 50 would probably be the best for this purpose due to being a prime lens so probably less field curvature?

The most common extension tubes for my camera seem to be 12, 20 and 36mm. Roughly what would be the maximum magnification ratio this could get me to when used with the 50mm lens on the D5600?

Also are there any extension tubes you would recommend? There's quite a few to choose from!

It's easier to understand the logic using a 50mm prime with extension tubes. Divide the tube length by the focal length and that's the magnification at "infinity".

If you use the 12mm + 36mm tubes that's 48mm divided by 50mm, so you get .96x at infinity. 20mm/50mm= 0.4x. Then you can add the magnification at minimum focus to get the maximum magnification possible.

When you divide the dimensions of the sensor by the magnification, you know exactly what to expect.

The focal length varies with the zoom lens, so it's harder to calculate, but works basically the same way.

Use the shortest tube to start and work your way up gradually and you'll get the relationship.

I once did a measurement with my 50mm and a full set of tubes - think was 65mm tubes total and it gave me very close to 2:1. Think it was like 1.8:1 but cant remember for sure. The calc may be correct for infinity but the actual maximum magnification does vary by specific lens.

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