Extension tubes

[masterbert]

Can someone explain to me further what extension tubes are for? And, will my AF-S 18-55mm VR lens auto focus if I use extension tubes? Thanks in advance...

[SusanH1970]

Extension tubes are used for macro work - a much cheaper alternative to an actual macro lens (though the quality of the photos may not be as good). You cannot use autofocus when using extension tubes.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=extension+tubes

[WadeCourtney]

Originally Posted by SusanH1970

Extension tubes are used for macro work - a much cheaper alternative to an actual macro lens (though the quality of the photos may not be as good). You cannot use autofocus when using extension tubes.

Let me google that for you

Actually, that is incorrect
These extension tubes allow for full auto focusing.

Amazon.com: Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras: Adorama Camera

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by WadeCourtney

Actually, that is incorrect
These extension tubes allow for full auto focusing.

Amazon.com: Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras: Adorama Camera

Cool! Haven't seen those. It does say that it's recommended to use manual focusing because autofocus will probably hunt for focus, though.

[Glenn72]

AF with Extension tubes does hunt and is almost unusable. I think I only have gotten 1 usable shot with AF.
I have bought the Meike tubes and find they work best on a fast prime like my Canon 50mm 1.8.
Even though I can AF I find that it does not work at all very well and would recommend not going with the AF extension tubes due to the price difference.
The only other advantage that these AF tubes have is that it is able to write the EXIF info of the photo.