A Comparison of Macro Lenses for a Digital SLR Canon
Dedicated macro lenses are available for Canon DSLR cameras, allowing detailed close-up photographs to be taken. Canon manufactures its own lenses. Quality lenses are also made by Sigma, Tamron and Tokina.
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Types
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Macro lenses come in a range of fixed focal lengths from 50mm to 180mm and beyond. Most feature auto-focus, some are manual focus only. True macro lenses capture images from life size (1:1) to 5x or greater magnification. Zoom lenses may include a macro feature that allows shooting at 1:2 or less, but not 1:1.
Manufacturers
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Canon produces several fast prime macro lenses at a range of focal lengths. Sigma, Tamron and Tokina are well-known manufacturers producing macro lenses compatible with the Canon EF system.
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Alternatives
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There are several alternatives to buying a macro lens. Extension tubes can be used with non-macro prime or zoom lenses to increase magnification and reduce minimum focusing distance. A reversing ring allows ordinary lenses to be mounted back-to-front on the camera, offering high magnification.
Considerations
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Choose a lens with focal length and minimum focusing distance suitable for the subjects you'll shoot. Greater length lets you stand further from the subject. A smaller focusing distance lets you move the lens closer.
Use a macro lens instead of a zoom lens's macro function if you want 1:1 or higher magnification.
Third-party lenses may cost less than Canon ones, but consider quality and compatibility issues. High quality lenses generally cost more. Consider buying lenses second-hand.
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References
Resources
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