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Nikon Kit Lens Macro Modification?

Started Sep 4, 2019 | Questions
KermitJohnson New Member • Posts: 3
Nikon Kit Lens Macro Modification?

Recently read "This Simple Conversion Turns Any Zoom Lens Into a Macro Lens" by Maximilian Simson. https://petapixel.com/2019/08/30/this-simple-conversion-turns-any-zoom-lens-into-a-macro-lens/

While he used a Canon EFS 18-55 Kit lens am wondering if anyone has tried this with a Nikon kit lens?

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Sailor Blue
Sailor Blue Forum Pro • Posts: 15,536
Re: Nikon Kit Lens Macro Modification?
4

As soon as I saw the first instruction, "1. Remove the front element of the lens.", I stopped reading.

Extension tube sets are available for macro photography that won't modify your lens and that will work with AF and AE. This kit is only $29.95 from Adorama.

Adorama Viltrox DG-1N Automatic Extension Tube Set for Nikon 1-Mount Lens & Mirrorless Cameras

Macro Extension Tubes & Close-up Lenses Calculator

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petrochemist Veteran Member • Posts: 3,619
Re: Nikon Kit Lens Macro Modification?

Sailor Blue wrote:

As soon as I saw the first instruction, "1. Remove the front element of the lens.", I stopped reading.

Extension tube sets are available for macro photography that won't modify your lens and that will work with AF and AE. This kit is only $29.95 from Adorama.

Adorama Viltrox DG-1N Automatic Extension Tube Set for Nikon 1-Mount Lens & Mirrorless Cameras

Macro Extension Tubes & Close-up Lenses Calculator

If you'd read the rest he does mention it's something to try with old spare lenses.

He seems to have only tried standard kit zooms not anything telephoto.

I've seen a few such lenses going for peanuts due to damaged front elements - sound like the ideal solution for such kit to me.

No reason it won't work for Nikon lenses too.

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D Cox Forum Pro • Posts: 32,980
Re: Nikon Kit Lens Macro Modification?

Adding a close-up lens to the front of your zoom lens is another modification to the optics -- you have added an element rather than taking one away. And it doesn't damage the zoom, and it's reversible.

If the kind of image quality shown in the article is good enough for you, you can get a set of four single element lenses for a modest price. They come under various brand names such as Neewer or Polaroid.

If you want very good image quality, get a Raynox 150 or 250, which will cost more.

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