Using extension tubes with a macro lens

Karlos78 · #1 (**permalink**) 18-09-2006, 01:09 PM

Hi

I've recently purchased the Tamron 90mm macro lens which I'm very pleased with, however I would like to go beyond 1:1. I understand using extension tubes with the lens this might be possible? Does anyone have any experience of using a macro lens with extensions tubes? Any tips or pros and cons would be greatly appreciated

Thanks
Karl.

nightshade · #2 (**permalink**) 18-09-2006, 01:26 PM

I am currently using a Sigma 105 and have been trying it with Kenko auto tubes
or a coupling ring and a reversed takumar 35mm lense
I have started with the 12mm ring any more and I do not get even average results
but it is interesting enough for me to persevre there are many good sites on the subject some are included in the threads on macro on this site

eeyore · #3 (**permalink**) 18-09-2006, 02:19 PM

I use a Tamron 90mm and have had good results using extension tubes (I have the jessops set £79) and also using 2x TC - If you use both together you can get nearly 3:1 but you need to use the TC against the camera body then the tubes then the lens so that it is doubling the entire effect. Be aware that you may lose your autofocus depending on what contacts your tubes have , but as most people use MF for macro anyway this isnt a big consideration. A good book to read if you want to learn more about macro set ups is "small things big" by paul harcourt davies.

Tobyh · #4 (**permalink**) 18-09-2006, 10:04 PM

I also use a Tamron 90mm and like Eeyore i have a Teleconverter first on the body (1.4) then normally either one or 2 tubes (either 36mm or 56mm total).

I'm really enjoying using them (I have a Nikon D50 and Kenko Pro DG tubes) and mainly use manual focus but these did retain Auto also. The main issue is that you need a dedicated flash unit often because the lens is so close to the subject that the built in flash often cant hit it. Also bear in mind that the weight starts to add up, not really an issue for me but for some it may be.

Also - using tubes means you lose the ability to focus on infinity. Not that great an issue but it severely reduces your working distances. That said It's not really been a big issue for me, just something to think about. Just means whipping your ext tube off if something bigger comes your way.

I ended up getting a ring flash to combat those lighting issues. Not necessary if you have an off camera flash that you can pop on a bracket.

In short - I like mine, very happy I bought them as they add more options to my pictures. For the price I think they are well worth it.

TobyH