Extension Tubes

[tricia108]

Hello,
I am considering buying a set of extension tubes but am having difficulty figuring out exactly what I need. I have heard that Kenko makes a great set however I have read that they do not work with EF & EF-S lenses. I have one of each lens so would like something that is compatible with both.
My camera is a Rebel XSI and I have an 18-55 EF-S and a 70-300 EF.
Can anyone tell me the best way to go so that I can use with both lenses?
Thanx in advance!!

[inkista]

Apparently, the more recent Kenko sets can take EF-S lenses. If the set is Marked "for C/AF" it doesn't take the EF-S lenses, if it's marked "C/AFs" it does. You may need to ask a seller directly, since they may not have updated the product graphic when/if they got the newer version.

You could also go with the cheaper Pro Optic set which also accepts EF-S lenses. There's a metal mount set that goes for around $85 and a budget plastic mount set that goes for around $65. You can find them on Adorama's website.

[ddr]

I just own a cheap 9.99 extension tube. Is AF important in such high magnification macro photography? I read that most ppl MF, and you would only move the camera back and forth until you achieve the correct focus.

[inkista]

I think wanting tubes with contacts is more about aperture control than it is about the autofocus. Given how shallow the DoF gets with macro photography, you really want to be able to stop down, rather than being stuck wide open.

[ddr]

so that's why so little seems to be in focus! that makes a lot of sense now that i think about it. thanks, and i'll take a look at the pro-optic one.

User comment from POTN:
"I just recieved my pro optic tubes yesterday, they provide full communication between lens and body, aperture and focus. Build is good, the body side mount is plastic with the lens side being metal. Mine only came with one cap but I have an extra body and rear lens cap and they make great covers for when your not using them. been playing with them for a few hours, I realy like them on my 28-135 sense it provides IS. I tried them with my 70-200 2.8 with a 1.4 tc. thats a pretty heavy setup for the tubes and you can feel some flex but all my other lenses are solid and I think the Kenkos would be the same way. If you plan on using a heavy lens you may want to go with the canons sense I believe they are all metal.

Like said above auto focus is about usless, to focus get close and adjust the zoom ring till its in focus then fine tume with the focus ring. They work with all my lenses except the 10-20 ultra wide and I think thats more of a problem with the lens. I will need more time to figure that one out.

For 85 bucks they are great tubes. I cant see anything the kenkos would provide over the pro-optics so save the cash and go with the cheaper ones."

Different review for those that are interested.

[Christi V]

i just looked at the pro optic at Adorama's website. site and this is what was stated at the bottom of the paragraph.
Auto Extension Tubes are not auto focus compatible with Canon EF-S lenses

[AgBeard]

Originally Posted by inkista

I think wanting tubes with contacts is more about aperture control than it is about the autofocus.

Extn, tubes with contacts are essential if you tether the camera & use the EOS Utility software to remotely control the focus & aperture

Here is my current setup: Extension Tubes