All Forum Comments
Comment by old timer posted on D-FA 100mm Macro at 18/07/2006 - 13:10
Hi
My first post
I have been a very very amateur photographer for over 40 years with both Pentax and Minolta – more a happy snapper with delusions really, but I ended up with a Pentax *istD with a couple of zoom lenses and a set of extension tubes
Now I want a suitable prime lens for Macro work – yes I know this question has been asked a hundred times, but forgive me if my last remaining brain cell is a bit slow on the uptake.
As far as I can see, the current new choice is between 50mm (Pentax) and 100mm (Tamron) and 105mm (Sigma)- all 1:1 Macro. All of course are subject to the 1.5X factor making it 75mm or 150mm. The main differences (apart from price) seem to be the camera to subject distance and DOF. The shorter the FL, the closer the focus but the greater the DOF.
I have no specific speciality in terms of subject; it could be a close-up of flower, or the dimple on the pimple of a fly’s left knee.
However, people talk about second hand lenses at remarkably low prices which confuses the issue even more.
So, first question for all the experts – what are your experiences with the different options?
Second question – what are the limitations of older S/H lenses? How do I know that they would work with the *istD. How do I get a manual threaded lens attached to my camera without damaging either of them.? Is there anything in between the old M42 mount and the moderm AF mount that might be suitable?
Any advice, guidance, counselling etc would be most welcome
Graham
My first post
I have been a very very amateur photographer for over 40 years with both Pentax and Minolta – more a happy snapper with delusions really, but I ended up with a Pentax *istD with a couple of zoom lenses and a set of extension tubes
Now I want a suitable prime lens for Macro work – yes I know this question has been asked a hundred times, but forgive me if my last remaining brain cell is a bit slow on the uptake.
As far as I can see, the current new choice is between 50mm (Pentax) and 100mm (Tamron) and 105mm (Sigma)- all 1:1 Macro. All of course are subject to the 1.5X factor making it 75mm or 150mm. The main differences (apart from price) seem to be the camera to subject distance and DOF. The shorter the FL, the closer the focus but the greater the DOF.
I have no specific speciality in terms of subject; it could be a close-up of flower, or the dimple on the pimple of a fly’s left knee.
However, people talk about second hand lenses at remarkably low prices which confuses the issue even more.
So, first question for all the experts – what are your experiences with the different options?
Second question – what are the limitations of older S/H lenses? How do I know that they would work with the *istD. How do I get a manual threaded lens attached to my camera without damaging either of them.? Is there anything in between the old M42 mount and the moderm AF mount that might be suitable?
Any advice, guidance, counselling etc would be most welcome
Graham
Comment by old timer posted on D-FA 100mm Macro at 17/07/2006 - 17:08
My previous SLR incarnation involved manual screw lenses so I am still learning about these new fangled things (ie post about 1970!) I did have a basic ME but even that had a screw converter fitted I flogged the lot about 12 months ago - big mistake - now I am slowly getting things together again so bear with me.
Do these lenses have the neccessary electical contacts or do I need any adapters to fix lens to camera?
If 100mm (150mm @ 35mm equiv) is good for macro what advantage is there for using a 50mm?
I have never used E-Bay, but my daughter has - guess I could leave the bidding to her.
I take it the Pentax 100 mm that you refer to is not the same as the "D" 100 that is now advertised.
One final thought, I was moving towards the Tamron 100mm - someone said it is better than any Pentax, but then few people that have spent £3-400 on something are hardly likely to admit it is inferior. Any comments?
Cheers
Graham