Do I need extension tubes?

[maximust]

I have just purchased a Tamron 2.8 90mm macro lens.

Will the extension tubes be necessary?

Thank you as always

Max

 

[Dogfish_magnet]

it depends - do you need more than 1:1 ? - if your answer is Yes, then you need tubes

 

[maximust]

I am very new to the world of macro so am only just understanding the terms.

So if I want to fill the frame with more of the subject, ie: magnify it ,then I need extension tubes

 

[billybob99]

Depends on how big your subject is, if it's smaller than sensor size without tubes you won't fill the frame, but bear in mind that the dof will be tiny

 

[Dogfish_magnet]

I am very new to the world of macro so am only just understanding the terms.

So if I want to fill the frame with more of the subject, ie: magnify it ,then I need extension tubes

Your Tamron's 1:1 - so if you take a picture at 1:1 ( closest focusing point) of a ruler the picture will = the size of your sensor, 23.6mm

with a full set of tubes you will get about 2:1 (2 x life size), so you will only see approx 11.8mm

 

[jomike]

With 48mm tubes and a 1.4 Teleconverter on a Tamron 90mm you see 10mm so about 2.4:1


Magnification test by jomike, on Flickr

I would suggest using the lens without tubes first to get used to the paper thin depth of field at these magnifications.
When you add tubes the depth of field gets less and you will also need flash because the tubes let in less light.

 

[maximust]

what is the budget option for a flash?

I have a flash but for flys etc I think they will move when it goes off.

Really appreciate all you're help.