Macro and telephoto

leejohn · #1 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 01:56 PM

I have just bought a Nikkor Micro 60mm AF 2.8 lens for my Nikon D80 so that I can start doing some decent macro photography. This is a prime lens and gets cracking images at 1:1 ratio but you have to get close to the subject. This is great for flowers and docile bugs but I would like any advice on how to extend the lens. I am considering a Kenko 2x teleconverter or 60mm of extension tubes. Does anyone have experience with a macro combination with either of these? I am assuming that a teleconverter means that I can be further away from the subject. Would 60mm extension tubes do the same or would this simply means that the subject becomes twice life size?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

matt_xyz · #2 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 02:08 PM

using 60mm of tubes on a 60mm lens will allow you to get 2:1 reproduction but it will significantly reduce your working distance (and lose light). The 2x converter will also provide up to 2:1 reproduction but will extend your working distance. However, there will be a loss of quality with a 2x converter. There will also be a loss of 2 stops of light. A 1.4 converter might be an option, the loss of quality can be minimal (and only 1 stop of light lost), although this will only extend your focal length to 84mm so no major gain.

No easy option unfortunately. The longer focal length macro lenses (i.e. 150mm or 180mm) do provide a lot more flexibility than a 60mm lens.

Matt

leejohn · #3 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 02:17 PM

Thanks Matt, you have answered my query. Initially I was going to go for a longer macro but I chose the 60mm as it is an excellent portrait lens and seems to excel at general photography. Also, having read up about longer macro lenses it seems that they would be a little to heavy for me but a teleconverter could be used when needed making it more of a multi purpose lens. I realise it means losing some light but it is something I need to investigate.

Thanks
Lee

Leif · #4 (**permalink**) 06-07-2008, 09:46 PM

To add to Matt's information, a 2x teleconverter will probably lead to mediocre image quality. The TC14A will work on the Nikon 60mm F2.8 AFD micro, and the quality is acceptable, but there is a noticeable drop in IQ. To be honest, given the cost of a TC, I think you would be better off with a ~100mm macro/micro lens. Nikon are best IMO, but Sigma, Tamron and Tokina are good too.