Macro Lens Help

[PPalmer]

Hi everybody

I am buying the wift a Nikon D3100 for Xmas. I know that she loves close up photos and would like a macro lens.

I think I have narrowed the choice to 2.

Nikon Af-S 60mm F2.8 Micro

or

Nikon AF-S 85mm F3.5 VR DX Micro

Opinions and other options greatly appreciated.

Budget approx £400

Paul

 

[RichieRich]

If you're after VR then the Nikon is a sensible option, if not I'd highly-recommend the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 di. I terms of optical quality you'll be hard-pushed to find a macro lens which tops it.

 

[Dogfish_magnet]

To get the best from a macro lens you need some diffused flash, also look at the minimum working distance of a lens (distance from front element to subject) as this can influence choice if you need to take pictures of live subjects (Nikon 60 mm is 73mm according to Ken Rockwell) - the longer the better - Nikon 105mm VR is approx 150mm.

 

[ecniv]

Since most macros will be manual (especially if you use tubes too!) then go for lenses with 1:1 at least macro. I have the 105d micro nikkor. Its crisp and wonderful. Replaced my 18-200vr with it due to the crispness.

Also works with the tubes although more light might be required.

Think they are around the 350 mark second hand. Might be worth checking on LCE (London Camera Exchange) or if you are close to some other second hand stores.

There are macro shots on the flickr link in the signature if you want to look - mixed in with others though

 

[PPalmer]

Thanks for the infromation I will look into the above comments

Paul