Close up filters? Are they any good?

[crazygeordiegirl]

As title really. ^^

Thanks

[Nod]

Compared to a dedicated Macro lens, not really BUT as a cheap introduction to Macro, yes. IIRC, Raynox are the brand to go for.

[flyingmonkeycorp]

As above. I have some Hoya ones, they're not amazing but they do a job. I also have a wide angle one: that thing's awful.

Couple of macro images (D60 with kit 18-55 and Hoya macro thingies):

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/3146733671_69265f6a6e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/willslater/3146733671/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3045/3100629345_0186e7738a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/willslater/3100629345/)

Clicky makey big, obviously not the most amazing images but you get the idea.

[jgs001]

The Raynox DCR250 is a stunning piece of kit for the money, it's not a lot more than the other filters, and clips on rather than screws on, so it's easier to convert back and forth.

On my 55-250 I get 1:1 at about 100mm. From a packet of Liquorice Allsorts..
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg118/johns_bucketofphotos/macro/IMG_2149.jpg

At 250mm I get about 2.5 x, and just the blue one.
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg118/johns_bucketofphotos/macro/IMG_2146.jpg

[Ajophotog]

Don't bother with the cheap filter type close up lenses, go for Raynox I use the range all the time, they are the best I think. Get the dcr 250 it is a good all-rounder and at £25-30 a bargain ;)

[flyingmonkeycorp]

Reckon I might have to pick up a Raynox one, I did get the Hoya ones for free!

[sypix]

Does anyone know how the Raynox compares to the Canon 250/500D?

Those are stunning shots btw, John. Might have a go myself :D

[crazygeordiegirl]

Cheers guys for the info. Will have a look at the raynox.