Which way to go?

[existent]

My main interest/focus in photography has been landscape so far but I am also interested in trying out some macro photography. I am trying to decide on which way to proceed....

Should I buy a dedicated macro lens and use the onboard flash, or buy an external flash and a reverse macro ring to use with 18-55 kit lens? I should point out that at this point I am definitely not interested in insect macro as I don't think I can get that close to insects

For a dedicated macro lens, I am thinking about ef-s 60mm. I am hoping it will double as a portrait lens as well. I also really like the sharpness of macro lenses How effective will it be without an external flash though?

I was thinking external flash can also be useful some landscape shots, and it will also allow faster shutter speeds if I need to stop action (water drops etc).

I tried reversing the 18-55 other day, and the magnification is very impressive. But how does the IQ compare to a macro lens? I know DOF is very limited with reverse macro.

So what do you all say? I need your opinions for this one

Sorry for the lengthy post, and thanks for reading / replying

 

[Robbo]

Hey, I have the efs 60mm canon macro.... It's an awsome lens, never really used it for portrait shots though.

I would be quite happy to do some experimental pics for you if there is anything inparticular you want to see how it turns out.

I have used the built in flash with this lens which seems to work well as long as your not at the closest range or you will cause shadowing. I'm in the middleof buying a side bar for my extenral flash etc to see how that compares, failing that I can hold it where it needs to be lol

like I said send me a pm and I will test out what your curiosities are with the lens

 

[existent]

Thanks Robbo, I'll send you a PM later on with some requests

Meanwhile, I am open to more comments from others

 

[existent]

noone else to comment?