[derekkite]

Both. Let's be honest here, there are never enough lenses.

I picked up an F-100 2.8 used and really like it. It is a good length for shooting discrete subjects; a flower, a bug. To fill the frame with a daisy, you need to get quite close in. You would get a totally different effect with a 35mm, one that I would like to explore.

[Serpiente]

I don't disagree with other's comments, but i would note that just because it is a macro lens doesn't mean that one has to use it at 1:1 all the time. The lens works excellently as a close shooting lens leaving the background in a pleasing blur. I enjoy using both the M 100mm macro lens and the DA-35 Macro with an adapter on my nex cameras. The advantage of the DA-35 is it sticks out at a much shorter distance than the 5" fully extended M 100 1:2 macro, which is useful if you're trying to get under flowers, etc. Easy to carry, doesn't take up much room.

The background of the DA35 Ltd. could be a bit nervous in some situations, but it really depends on the background. Nervous backgrounds get nervous blur. See:

[reverenddude]

If you can find a used one, give the FA 50mm macro f2.8 a try too. It is easily the sharpest lens I've ever used. I bought it from some shady guy on CL who inherited it from his aunt. It's amazing.

[kentishrev]

so pleased with the purchase. Much enjoyment to be had. Thanks for all the advice and support. As ever!

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[jddwoods]

I cannot believe this has not been asked before.....but cannot find it anywhere. So here goes,

I current own several lenses: a 20-40 Limited, 18-55 WR, 50mm f/1.8, 135mm M, and 55-300 WR. So, for a relative newcomer, with a K-30, I've got (I think) most things covered. However, with money saved, I'm looking for a Macro lens - something to try now the summer is coming and the bugs are out.

I've looked at both the 100mm WR Macro, and the 35mm Macro Limited. Both seem wonderful lenses. I'm uncertain on which to get. Given my current lens line-up, which would you all recommend I go for. And why? What is the true difference as a Macro lens between the two?

many thanks

I have both DA35 mm Macro limited and the DFA 100 mm WR. Both serve me well as dual role lenses. The 35 is my normal lens and macro for botanicals and inanimate objects where the 100 mm is too long. For birds and bugs and anything that can walk, jump or fly the 100 mm is my go to for macros. It also doubles as a great sharp telephoto as well. Both lenses are my only lenses that I rate a 10!