To OS or not to OS - that is the question.

[JulesP]

I'm starting to dabble a little more in the world of macro. I have a D7100, Tamron 90mm 2.8, 20mm extension tube and an LED ring flash.

My question to you all is - does OS / VR make much difference in macro? I've heard conflicting stories about its effectiveness at such short focussing distances.
My Tamron is non stabilized but I am considering upgrading it to a Sigma 105 OS for the stabilization - if its worth doing.

Thanks

Julian

 

[Brachytron]

I have the Siggy 150mm os. I must say that the os becomes less effective as you approach 1:1 mag, so I would not suggest you change just for this.

 

[JulesP]

Thanks - I thought this was the case.

 

[woof woof]

I have the Siggy 150mm os. I must say that the os becomes less effective as you approach 1:1 mag, so I would not suggest you change just for this.

If there's any effectiveness at all then having it is still an advantage plus not every shot is going to be 1:1.

I think that OS is great if any additional bulk doesn't become a hindrance and if the cost doesn't go through the roof. Handling, costs and performance being equal IMVHO anyone choosing not to have IS must need to sit down and have a nice cup of tea and think hard about the choice as if you have IS you can turn it off but if you haven't got it turning it on is going to prove a challenge

 

[odd jim]

OS will only be advantagous. Also, Macros tend to make very good potrait lenses in their own right, so you might find yourself using this way off 1:1.

 

[Nod]

As mentioned, OS/VR is less useful in Macro situations BUT the 100mm(ish) focal length is great for portraits (among other things) so OS/VR is worth having. I did do a similar upgrade a couple of years ago (from an old Tamron to the Nikkor 105mm) and don't regret it.