Marco help for a newbie

[petzl]

Hi guys, im a newbie dslr user (canon 400d) and am keen to get into some macro photography. im looking at getting these kenko extension tubes (http://dvdreamtime.com.au/kenko-exte...al-p-1787.html) but was wondering if magnifying filters or reverse mounts are just as good – any suggestions?

also for anyone who uses the extension tubes i would like to know how much this reduces the minimum focal distance by (i hope thats the right terminology!) my kit lenses focal distances are currently 0.28m (18-55mm) and 1.5 (75-300mm).

Cheers

[Elmo]

AS your lenses are not very fast I would try Diopters (add on lenses) first as they cause no light loss. If they do not provide enough mag then add extension tubes. There are times when you might want to use both at the same time.

[wulf]

I found my Raynox DCR-250 to be a good way in - relatively cheap and easy to take on and off when taking shots in a setting like a garden where I wanted both extreme close-ups and wider views.

Wulf

[dmvp]

I agree with Wulf. His photos are the reason I bought my Raynox lens. I really like to do macro work but find I only do it sporadically. The Raynox lens is the perfect price for great pictures, and I don't feel guilty if it sits in my bag for awhile either.

[wulf]

Do you mean like these ones? (100% Raynox goodness - I've marked up the lens used in the tags for each shot).

Wulf

[petzl]

Does the Raynox DCR-250 diopter use a screw thread? as my lenes dont have screw threads on the end (im assuming i will need a screw thread to use diopters)

btw - nice pics wulf

[Elmo]

what dslr lens does not have filter threads?

[petzl]

after doing some research i found that the raynox DCR-250 uses a universal clip which is meant to work on all lenes. i think i'll go and order myself one - cant wait to take some macro shots! cheers for the help folks.

[wulf]

Yes - it uses a clip mechanism. My only gripe about the product is that the plastic is not that strong and doesn't last forever. I'm sure they could improve the adaptor by using some reinforcement.

I got about six months of extensive use out of mine (and did get a replacement, although I tend to use my Vivitar 90mm for macros now) but I think it was not a waste of money because of the fun I had and the experience I was able to gain.

Wulf