genuine macros lens

[ruffdog64]

How can i spot a proper macro lens as opposed to the not quite macro lens if that makes sense, i have a tamron 70-300mm lens which claims to be macro but isn`t really (I was aware it wasn`t before buying it ) aprt from price i`m a bit stumped

 

[TCR4x4]

Most proper macro lenses are prime lenses (fixed focal length) usually 60mm, 70mm, 90mm, 100mm or 105mm.
The specifications will state the magnification ratio and you want to be looking for 1:1 for true macro capability.

 

[Canon Bob]

Here's a quick list of the common contenders;
Canon...
EF-S60 f/2.8
EF100 f/2.8
EF100 f/2.8 IS L
EF180 f/3.5 L

Sigma
50mm f/2.8 EX DG macro
70mm f/2.8 EX DG macro
105mm f/2.8 EX DG macro OS or not
150mm f/2.8 EX DG macro OS or not
180mm (discontinued)

Tamron
SP AF 90mm DI macro

HTH
Bob

 

[vaizki]

Well surprisingly the Tamron 70-300 is spec'd as having a maximum magnification of 1:2 (at f=300mm MFD 0.95m) so it actually IS a macro lens in my book even though it isn't 1:1 .. A lot of macro lenses used to be 1:2 and some still are (like the EF 50/2.5 macro) and you'd slap on an extension tube to bring it to 1:1.

Of course with a 300mm macro, you'd need 150mm of tubes to bring it up to 1:1 which is impractical.

Best way to know is research beforehand.. Like asking here

 

[ruffdog64]

Thanks for taking the time to reply everyone, all the info will be put to good use,Harvey

 

[heidfirst]

Here's a quick list of the common contenders;
Canon...
EF-S60 f/2.8
EF100 f/2.8
EF100 f/2.8 IS L
EF180 f/3.5 L

Sigma
50mm f/2.8 EX DG macro
70mm f/2.8 EX DG macro
105mm f/2.8 EX DG macro OS or not
150mm f/2.8 EX DG macro OS or not
180mm (discontinued)

Tamron
SP AF 90mm DI macro

also Tamron 180/3.5

do Tokina do their 100 Macro in Canon fit?