Whats the difference?

shrimperblue

shrimperblue

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Dave
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Ok I am confused :thinking:

Can somebody please tell me what lens is best for Macro and why.


Sigma 105mm EX DG f/2.8 Macro Lens
Sigma 70-300mm f4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG Lens

Thanks.

SB
 
the 105mm I think is more designed for macro, whereas the 70-300 has been designed for telephoto applications...but has been given macro capabilities!
 
The 105. :)

It's a real macro lens, in as much as it focuses close enough that the object you're shooting will be the same size on the sensor as it really is. 1:1 to be techy.

The other lens is just a lens that focuses a bit close but not 1:1, it will be more like 3 or 4:1. Or is that 1:3 or 4, can never remember but I'm sure you get the idea. :)
 
ok so you get the best of both worlds. Ive read that the 70-300 is a good lens but do you know what the macro design would mean in terms of quality?

answered already ^^ thanks
 
ok so you get the best of both worlds
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If pushed, I'd be more inclined to say you get the worst of both worlds.

A lens that is compromised by design, will focus slower, and does no one thing as well as it could.

...but it will have a stab at all things yes.
 
Well I have recently purchased the 105mm, hence my question, but you know I have to say that the AF on the 105 is very slow indeed.
 
I have to say that the AF on the 105 is very slow indeed.
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Totally the norm for a real macro lens. The best ones don't offer AF at all. :D
 
yeah I dont use it :nono: but for anyone thinking of it.....dont be shocked when it takes you an hour to focus!!

SB
 
dont be shocked when it takes you an hour to focus!!
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That's why people say macro is best done on a tripod. So you can set the focus off, go off and make a drink, cook a roast or whatever then come back and fire the shutter. :LOL:
 
Zoom lenses which have a macro function are really a con and I don't know how manufacturers keep getting away with using the word 'macro' on these lenses.

A true macro lens is always a prime lens - never a zoom and they're capable of putting a life size image or greater, of lets say a fly, on the sensor or film. Obviously with a life size image on the sensor, the potential for enlarging the image is huge.

Zoom lenses with a 'macro' function simply enable you to get closer than you would normally and can be useful in a walkabout lens, but you wont get anywhere near the image size on the sensor that you will with a macro lens - you'd end up very disappointed if your interest lay in macro.
 
dazzajl said:
Totally the norm for a real macro lens. The best ones don't offer AF at all. :D
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The Sigma 150mm being the exception that rule, stunning bit of glass with very fast HSM focusing for non-macro applications (y)

The 70-300 offers 1:2 (half lifesize) reproduction in macro "mode" which limits the focal length to 200-300mm range. It's also pretty slow to focus but probably not as slow as the 105mm ;)
 
with very fast HSM focusing for non-macro applications
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oh cool, I didn't know that. Switched the AF off the first time mine went on the camera and I don't think it's ever been back on. :LOL:
 
Turn on the range limit for focusing and it really flies (y)

Of course if you're keeping AF on a separate button you can leave it on and use the FTM for manual plus AF is there when you need it. (y) (y)
 
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