Is there such thing as a Zoom macro?

[deifythee]

Just curious if canon makes a zoomable lens with true macro capability?
Also, does anyone have any input or opinions on what is a better multi-use lens on a 1.6 crop sensor? 60mm or 100mm? I would like to maybe use the lens for a portrait or two but am considering the 100mm might be a stretch on the XTI.
Thanks for any input, I always learn something when I come here!

[kirbinster]

Well I had a Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 DG EX MACRO lens.

[RichardTaylor]

A "true" macro (1:1)?
Not to my knowledge.
However lots of so called "macro" zooms around that will focus close.
Just check the lens specs.

[natek313]

All of Canon's true macro lenses are primes.

I have the 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro lens, and I've used it for portraits in addition to my macro work. Although, I prefer my 85mm f/1.8 USM lens for portraits, the 100mm macro works pretty well for portrait work. You just need a little more space.

If your macro work is going to be mostly insects and the like, I would say go for the 100mm since it gives you a little more reach and you won't have to be as close to the subject and risk startling the subject. And, when you use it for the occasional portrait, I don't think you'll have a problem, especially if the portrait isn't full-length.

[deifythee]

Thanks, that's pretty much what I wanted to know.
Is there a reason there are no zooms? Seems like it would be useful if possible.

[natek313]

Not sure. Perhaps it has something to do with achieving true macro (1:1) - that is to say, it might not be possible to achieve 1:1 with a zoom lens with moving internal elements. That's just a pure guess, though.

Perhaps our resident lens expert, inkista, knows.

[LoveDSLR]

Nikon had the 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Micro AF zoom lens (1997-2004). Max ratio is 1:1.32 @180mm.

Source: Nikon 70-180mm Review

[inkista]

Originally Posted by natek313

Perhaps our resident lens expert, inkista, knows.

Nope. No freaking clue.

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by LoveDSLR

Nikon had the 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Micro AF zoom lens (1997-2004). Max ratio is 1:1.32 @180mm.

Source: Nikon 70-180mm Review

This is the closest you'll get

[natek313]

Originally Posted by inkista

Nope. No freaking clue.

We're screwed. Haha.