Which Macro First?

Before Nikon lens prices jump Feb 1st I plan on purchasing a macro lens to use with my D300.

I would appreciate any input and recommendations everyone might have.

Thanks,

Gary

Go with the 60mm if you haven't shot a ton of macro before. With the cropped sensor you can shoot 1:1, and larger stuff, too. It is a very versatile lens both underwater and topside. If you find you like shooting the really puny stuff, (like me) then the 105mm will be a great addition down the road.

Cheers,

Marli

Go with the 60mm if you haven't shot a ton of macro before. With the cropped sensor you can shoot 1:1, and larger stuff, too. It is a very versatile lens both underwater and topside. If you find you like shooting the really puny stuff, (like me) then the 105mm will be a great addition down the road.

 

Cheers,

Marli

I am a bit confused since aren't both the 60 and the 105 1:1. I understand the difference in working distance but isn't the magnification for puny stuff the same?

Bill

In the film days (or full frame digital, FX), the extra working distance or the 105mm was critical when shooting flighty little fish at close to one-to-one. The 105mm's extra working distance also allowed for better strobe positioning.

But, with a DX sensor (1.5x focal length), the 60mm becomes a 90mm and the 105mm becomes a 158mm. So, the 60mm (on DX) shoots pretty close to the 105mm (on FX).

The main problem is shooting at higher than 1:1. Say 2:1 with a 6T nikon multi-element diopter. Working distance shrinks. Lighting becomes tricky.

There's a trade off with more working distance: more water between the subject and the front of the flat port (more chance for backscatter, more strobe power required. muddy images if shooting bigger than 1:10)

Take Care,

ChrisS

Yeah, I use the same 105mm I have from film days, since I was used to do super-macro with it I don't mind to keep it with my D300.

But for a starter I would recommend the 60mm. In the DX Sensor it works as a 90mm and behind a flat port as a 120mm!!!

The old 60mm is a good option, cheaper and with almost 1in more working distance.

Before Nikon lens prices jump Feb 1st I plan on purchasing a macro lens to use with my D300.

I would appreciate any input and recommendations everyone might have.

Thanks,

Gary

Hi Gary,

I find the 60mm a great lens and would definitely go with this one. The 105mm is a trickier lens, especially where I generally dive in the UK, with limited vis!

Just my quick thoughts

Chris