Advice needed

[Johnny]

Hi guys, looks like i have come to the right place to get decent information. I am thinking about buying a sigma 105 F2.8 EX macro lens for my 300D and was wondering if this lens is what you guys woudl recommend for very good macro shots. I am mainly going to try and use it for moths and butterflies. Also what flash should i look at buying as i really want to get the best shots i can. any advuce appreciated. many thanks.....Johnny.

[PapaLazarou]

Go for the Sigma 150mm macro instead, it a corker.

[Johnny]

many thanks..I have just placed an order in for one this minute, but can anyone advise on a flash unit to go with this for insect photography?..cheers

[Gandhi]

If you can, you're better off without flash, Especially for shots of insects as it's hard to avoid reflections and hotspots on their carapaces,eyes,wings etc. For flowers a flash is ideal.
AFAIK, sigma and canon make dedicated macro flash set-ups that fit on the end of the lens and have 2+ flashes so you can reduce harsh shadows and reflections etc. They're bloomin pricey though for a flash that really has one use.

Failing that, just a dedicated flash for your camera should be fine. Metz, sigma or Canon would do.

[Johnny]

Cheers for the reply, would a ring flash not eliminate such shadows?

[Canon Bob]

Johnny,

I use a Sigma EM-140 DG ring flash.....not on your lens, but on an EF-S60 and EF180L.

Works fine for me and is much cheaper than the MR-14EX from Canon. It comes in a neat little bag with 55 and 58mm adaptors included....most other sizes are available for about 6 quid at Warehouseexpress.

Bob

[antihero]

Go for the Sigma 150mm macro instead, it a corker.

what about the 180mm Sigma? its about £30-£40 more than the 150?

only asking as i was thinking about it myself.