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G16 For Macro Photography

Started 3 months ago | Questions thread
Jon_T
Jon_T Veteran Member • Posts: 6,393
Re: G16 For Macro Photography
1

Pete E wrote:

I have a G16 which I would like to use for Marco photography, specifically for photographing small coins of around 8mm 3/8" in diameter...

I realise that a DSLR with a macro lens along with the appropriate sized copy stand is probably the best option, ...

True. Possible to find a used Canon DSLR and a "true" Macro lens for your budget. "Close Focusing" lenses will never match the image quality of a "true" Macro lens
(see "What Is a Macro Lens?" HERE).

... but I am looking for a compact set up that won't take much room on a windowsill. ....

"Assuming" you're using the "... window sill ..." for soft lighting?

There are many simple inexpensive DIY light box options online; e.g.; HERE. And inexpensive "daylight" color temp LED lighting available.

IMO a light box will provide greater shooting options than using "window sill"—been there, done that many times 'decades' ago.

What I have so far is:

G16 and adaptors for 58mm filter. (Digital zoom disabled in menus)

CS320 compact copy stand plus quick detach plate.

+3 Marumi close up lens.

Remote release.

The problem I am having is that I still can't get the subject to fill the frame. ....

May want to look into a Lens Adapter that attaches to the G16's 'body mount'; e.g., HERE; so you can attach a macro lens more securely:

One of the popular macro attachment lens is the Raynox DCR-250 Super Macro Snap-On Lens; e.g., HERE.  Might be able to find a used one in good condition.

... I go into the Macro mode and set the zoom to its widest setting. However, when I do this, to get focus, I have no working distance between the coin and the close up lens...This is causing me issues with lighting the coin.

If I move the camera back to get say a 4" working distance, I end needing to use the zoom and then I have problems with the close focus distance.

I have tried the manually controlled focus option, but there seems to be set focus ranges that relate directly to the zoom being used..

Yep, with most compact cameras the max close focusing is at the lens' WA focal length and with a small "front of lens to subject distance". In case not aware the term "Macro" used by camera Mfg's, a fallacy—just their incorrect abbreviated terminology for
"Close Focusing".

As you increase the focal length, the minimum close focusing distance increases.

I feel I am making a basic mistake somewhere and not setting things up correctly...

I also wondered if I need a lens that allows me to set the optical zoom to maximum, and at the same time, allows the camera to achieve focus at about 4" if such a thing exists?

... If anybody could walk me through setting up for shooting small coins ie distance camera to coin, and the various settings on the camera, that would be much appreciated..

To save the need for a LOT of typing, and not knowing your photog experience, there are numerous on-line articles/ tutorials you can find HERE.

Cheers,
Jon

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