cheap macro lens

rparmar
Posted 05/06/2013 - 14:56 Link
Riachsion wrote:
I was advised AF so that if I am taking a shot of an insect it will be faster to focus before it moves away
No. AF cannot provide the degree of focus accuracy you need for macros.

What you do instead is take your time and study the insects. See where they land. If they are pollen carriers then see what pattern of flowers they visit... chances are they will repeat this pattern.

Then set up in a likely place and wait.

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Bee Home 2 by robinparmar, on Flickr. Not really a macro, I admit, but a close focus shot anyway.
Listen to my albums free on BandCamp. Or visit my main website for links to photography, etc.
Edited by rparmar: 05/06/2013 - 14:57
Riachsion
Posted 05/06/2013 - 15:02 Link
Great shot thanks for the advice I will take this on board

Bob
rparmar
Posted 05/06/2013 - 15:08 Link
Also: If you have enough light for faster shutter speeds, and don't want extreme magnification, you can move to follow insects. A monopod is perfect for this. Use it to pivot around while providing as much stability as possible. If you are in a dense area of insects this can allow you to swoop in on a likely candidate.

If you are after greater magnification then things become a lot harder and I'd recommend a ring light as a minimal start on enhancing gear.
Listen to my albums free on BandCamp. Or visit my main website for links to photography, etc.
Riachsion
Posted 05/06/2013 - 15:09 Link
I bought a ring light last week

Bob
Riachsion
Posted 10/06/2013 - 18:27 Link
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sample with new lens
Riachsion
Posted 10/06/2013 - 18:28 Link
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another sample
Riachsion
Posted 10/06/2013 - 18:37 Link
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this one was taken with a 3 piece extension tube
joostdh
Posted 10/06/2013 - 21:33 Link
Looking good, enjoy the whole new world that macro photography opens up!
Pentax K-1| D-FA 24-70mm | FA 43mm F1.9 Ltd | FA* 85mm F1.4 | D-FA 100mm F2.8 Macro WR | DA* 200mm F2.8 | Pentax AF 540FGZ

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