Canon Macro Lens Recommendations?

[Brown.Eyed.Girl]

Taking pictures of my mom''s ring today, I realized that I really want a good macro lens (at least, one that will take better macro pics than my 18-55mm kit lens). I have the Rebel XSi, which I love, and I also have the 50mm f/1.8 II prime lens. While I''m taking the camera with me on vacation, I realized that I mostly use it for photographing gems or kittens. The prime and kit lens are doing great for kitten shots, so now I just need a good macro lens to go with it

I''d like to keep this under $500 (as far under as possible without sacrificing too much in quality). Any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[ArtistJess]

i know i'm not really supposed to talk about other forums (pricescope regulations) but have you researched any of the canon or photography forums. there is a really awesome one that i found by googling.. it helped me out a lot just recently when i purchased my rebel xs.

oh, and sorry i couldn't offer any actual lense recommendations.. i'm kind of in the same boat you are! looking for the perfect canon wedding lens!

 

[kenny]

I'm a Nikon man but Ken Rockwell's website has a favorable review of this Canon Macro lens.

100mm macro lens review

This lens gives you 6 inches of room between the lens and the subject.
The more room the better.

 

[kenny]

Canon also makes a cheaper 60mm macro lens but it gives you only 3.5 inches of room.
Believe me, for diamonds you want more room to let light into the front of the diamond.
Plus the further away the lens is the less black of the lens you will see in the diamond.

Partial snip:

Working Distance: At the close focus distance there is only 3-1/2" between the subject and the front of the lens — less if you use filters.
It is difficult not to block your own lighting and not to annoy living subjects.
This is why I prefer the Canon 100mm macro, which at the same image size, gives you almost double the room with which to work.

60mm macro lens review

Also, consider doing what I did, buy an older discontinued lens on Craigslist.
Find out whether older Canon lenses are compatible with your body, not just the bayonet mount but light metering too.
You may be able to save hundreds of dollars, you don't really want autofocus anyway for macro work.

 

[kenny]

Also consider getting one or two extension tubes.
They have no glass in them so they are cheap.
They just move the lens away from the body to increase the enlargement.
I use mine often.

Be careful to select one that is compatible with your body and lens.
The below pic may not be the correct model for you.

 

[Brown.Eyed.Girl]

Thank you both!

Kenny, that is super helpful - thank you! I''m looking up the 100m macro lens on ebay to see if there are any slightly cheaper used ones. I''m really excited to add to my (very small) lens collection. The extender is a great idea. I''ve seen your set-up for taking gem pictures - it is hardcore! I need some flowers now....

 

[kenny]

Glad to help.
Can''t wait for pics.