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Thread: Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

  1. #1

    Join Date
    Mar 1999
    Posts
    111

    Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

    Of the lenses I use most frequently, which would be best for close-up photograph y (generally 1:1 or so), a 135mm or a 210mm, both Symmar-S? I know that in the 3 5mm world, a 100mm macro lens will allow more distance between lens and subject than a 50mm macro, but I also realize that I need 420mm of bellows draw for 1:1 with the 210mm. I use a Wisner Expedition, so bellows draw isn't too much of a f actor. What are the pluses and minuses of using these focal lengths? Please avoi d the "you should use a lens optimized for 1:1" angle in favor of the arguments for and against the lenses I already own. Thanks in advance -- this forum is so incredibly awesome!

  2. #2

    Join Date
    Jan 2001
    Location
    Brazil
    Posts
    185

    Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

    Todd, On the technical side, there should be no much difference between both lenses, as their design is quite similar. Perspective will show a major step and should be considered carefully, although a quite subjective matter. Once you have your subject filling the view- finder, DOF will be the same as the usual trouble it brings to the game. Kodak had a very informative booklet on macro-photography, covering everything from train models to baby-shrimps, including large-format, where the optical question was covered on quite a broad and realistic way. I mean, not trying to sell some piece of "magic glass". Maybe it's still available, I don't know. By the way, have you an enlarger lens? Good work.

    Cesar B.

  3. #3

    Join Date
    Jun 2000
    Location
    So. California
    Posts
    191

    Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

    Like Cesar said, if bellows draw and subject to film plane distance is not a factor then you should be able to use either lens. Pat

  4. #4

    Join Date
    Sep 1998
    Location
    Loganville , GA
    Posts
    14,409

    Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

    Neither wwill give critically sharp, contrasty results as they are well out of their optimization range.

    A dedicated macro lens will be superior if edge to edge performance with optimal resolution and contrast is important.

    both will be adequate though.

  5. #5

    Q: Best non-macro lens for macro work?

    Do you own an enlarger Todd? If so, a decent 6 element enlarging lens of 80mm or longer, will outperform a general purpose taking lens at macro distances. The lack of a shutter isn't much of a problem when shooting macro. You'll either be using long exposure times, or flash, anyway.

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