Extension tubes Vs Diopter filter (Nikon fit)

[D-man]

Hi guys,

Looking to do some macro work on the cheap. What are generally considered the best option instead of Macro lenses - extension tubes or diopter filters?

I have a f1.8 35mm and a 18 - 200mm on a D60 body.

Thanks in advance.

Dave

[HoppyUK]

What subjects? What kind of magnification?

There's a big difference between eg flowers and ant portraits! ;)

[D-man]

Just wanted to play around really, which is why I didn't want to invest in Macro lens.

I guess it would just be insects/flowers that kind of thing.

As for magnification again i'm not really sure but what stops me at the moment is the minimum focus distance of the lenses (especially the 18 - 200) you can never seem to get close enough.

[HoppyUK]

For a cheap play, Raynox DCR-150 or 250 for £40 from Amazon. There is a big difference (in size) between flowers and and insects though, hence the question. Insects, the 250 version, flowers, the 150. On the 18-200 zoom.

[D-man]

Thanks very much. Will give it a whirl.

[acs]

Insects, the 250 version, flowers, the 150. On the 18-200 zoom.

I don't have Raynox 'filters', so... anyway, a couple of things:

Check Raynox fit 72mm lenses -- didn't think they went up to this diameter of lens, so you may need a step down ring.

Also, note that the 18-200 isn't a great lens to use as it has a slightly unusual design and may not give you quite the expected magnification. This isn't to say it won't work.

[acs]

Another discussion about Raynox on the 18-200: http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=205754