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Old 19-07-2009, 08:07 PM
Geoff F Geoff F is offline
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Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: S. Devon
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Re: Best lens for photographing butterflies

I use a Sigma 180mm, Robin, and it suits me; but it is really a tripod lens and isn't cheap.

A 150mm is a bit more versatile and will double up as a reasonable insect lens as well. The 105 is fine but, as others have mentioned, you do need to get that little bit closer.

I have managed acceptable butterfly photos with my 28-135 at the longer end but even here I find a tripod/monopod helps to capture the finer details.

As an alternative you could try an extension tube, say 25mm, with your 70-200 which should get you around 1 ft closer. I worked like this with my 70-300 but you do lose a bit of light and, once again, a tripod makes all the difference. The price varies between brands but you should get one of the top names for under £100. Auto focus should be OK in good light but whenever possible I prefer manual focus for all macro work.

Last edited by Geoff F; 19-07-2009 at 08:09 PM. Reason: extra line
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