Best macro

[chan90]

Hello everyone. I was wondering what the best macro lens (preferably a good value as well)was for the Nikon D200. I currently have the AF-S Nikkor 18-200mm 1:3.5-5.6 lens. I would like to take close up shots of splashing/diffusing droplets, as well as flowers.

[Almond.Butterscotch]

Much of deciding on a macro lens is based on opinion. Since macro work will require you to stay as close-focused as possible (to get it 1:1 with all of Nikon's Macro (actually micro, which they got right) lenses and most of anyone else's as well), autofocus just wont matter, so don't worry much about AF-S, AF, etc. You could get an AI-S lens and as far as the macro photography goes, you'll be fine. Additionally, assuming you'll be using a decent light set up in addition to just the lens (ring flash?), fastest aperture doesn't matter as much, but for bokeh and low-light situations, it'd be nice to have anyways. Personally, I find that longer lenses make macro easier if you have a steady hand and/or you plan on doing macro work where tripods can be used (for flowers and droplets, not a problem. for bugs- possible problem).

Personally, when I shoot macro, I run over and borrow a lens from my neighbor. He has a 105mm f/2.8 and the 85mm f/3.5. The 105 gives me an equivalent focal length of 157.5mm and I find that to be a much, but its faster than the 85. I usually borrow the 85- its about half as heavy and I don't use a tripod. The 105 is VR if i remember right though.

It's really up to you and what kind of work you'll doing, imho.

[radityopradipto]

Just start macro or want to do serious macro?
Serious one definitely need the tank-like 200 F/4 micro
Just starting, maybe 105 VR is a good start...
I don't know much about the newest 85 F/3.5, but I reckon it's a bit slow though

[chan90]

Thank you for the replies! Yes, I will have a setup (not just the built in flash) and will mostly be using a tripod. So a longer lens would be okay for me. Also, I would like it to be the more professional lens, because I have been experimenting and learning with what I have for years now and I feel like I'm ready to really apply what I've learned.

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by radityopradipto

I don't know much about the newest 85 F/3.5, but I reckon it's a bit slow though

Slow in what sense? Most macro work is dont stopped down for DoF because at those ranges it's razor thin! The new 85 has an amazing MTF reading so it *should* be pretty good.