Macro lens for Nikon D60

Danno83

Danno83

Messages
42
Name
Dan
Edit My Images
No
Hi all, I'm new to this forum, and thought this would be a great place to get some help and advice. I've been doing photography for a while but getting in macro and have been using extension rings on my 18-55mm VR kit lens which still works great but wondering if anyone has any advice of what prime lens would work great for a Nikon D60 that is not too pricy. Thanks in advance,

Dan
 
I've just bought a used Tamron 90mm f/2.8 macro from MPB for a shade over £200.

The main problem with shorter focal length (50-60mm or so) macro lenses is the need to get very close to the subject for 1:1 magnification. This results in the bug being spooked and flying away, or if it stays put in a lot of light being blocked by the closeness. It can also cause a big shadow where the light from the flash should be.
 
That's pretty good price. Your right I'm finding all those issues. Got some great close ups of ladybird and hoverfly and was probably an inch from each but not ideal. I will look into that lens.

So it works on for Nikon D60? And does auto focus work as well?

Thanks for your help
 
Hi Danno, welcome to talk photography!

I used to use the Tamron 90mm 2.8 with my Nikon D60. I found it to be amazing - the length was perfect, it could be used for tightly cropped portraits and headshots, it was also perfect for proper macro too. Honestly haven't got a bad word to say about it.. It's very sharp and very versatile. It will not auto focus on your camera - having said that, auto focus is a bit pointless with macro because of how shallow your depth of field is, you have to be constantly readjusting focus. Auto focus with a macro lens is useful for portraits I find, but somewhat useless when trying to shoot a bug or something like that. I never use auto focus when doing macro, maybe that's just me.

In conclusion, don't let the auto focus thing put you off. The tamron is about as good as you will get in that price range, I say go for it! :)
 
Stratman said:
I've just bought a used Tamron 90mm f/2.8 macro from MPB for a shade over £200.

The main problem with shorter focal length (50-60mm or so) macro lenses is the need to get very close to the subject for 1:1 magnification. This results in the bug being spooked and flying away, or if it stays put in a lot of light being blocked by the closeness. It can also cause a big shadow where the light from the flash should be.
Click to expand...

The Tamron only has a minimum working distance of 99MM where as apposed to the Nikon 60 has a MWD of 90.4mm - so not a lot of difference ;) to get a longer working distance you need a Siggy 105mm 122mm , siggy 150mm 194mm or the Nikon 105mm 136mm
 
Thanks Guys for your comments and help, some good points and will continue to research. I might just have to bit the bullet and save for a Nikon 105mm lens, so I don't get disapointed :)

And Dogfish_magnet (Paul) wow your photos are incredible. I have a long way to go before I get that good...ha ha
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top