Originally posted by sajmmiller Hi Marc,
Thanks for commenting! Yes, the swallowtails were constantly on the move so proved to be quite a challenge.
I did get quite a few shots though, some maybe better than this one.
I'd be curious to see what you think of the 100% crops using the Promaster teleconverter. So far, I think it's pretty good bang for the buck ($69.95 + $8 shipping). It's made in Japan, multicoated, and build quality seems good. I think I warmed the white balance a touch in my raw converter on the swallowtail shot, but I haven't noticed any obvious color shift with the TC yet. Autofocusing seems to work fine with good light.
I'll look forward to getting together with you at some point. Drop me an email or PM anytime.
Attached 100% Crops from converted Raw file (No Sharpening)(EXIF intact for all):
1. Tamron 70-300 Di LD @ 300mm + Promaster 1.7x for 510mm, tripod
2. Tamron 90mm macro + Promaster 1.7x for 153mm (From above swallowtail pic)
3. Another from above swallowtail shot
#1: considering the fact that you're using a cheap (but relatively good) zoom lens with the TC, that's not bad!
#2 and #3 are definitely the better ones, and it shows how good your TC really is when using an ultra-sharp prime lens such as a macro lens. The overcast day certainly didn't do you any favors in terms of shutter speed, and I personally prefer that - much nicer, more even light.
A TC's AF is always taking a performance hit in anything less than brighter conditions, unless you've got a pro level body (ie. very $$$) to back it up. I think you've done quite well, and your technique shows improvement - by following the old school mantra of practice, practice....
I'd be quite satisfied with an 8x10 print of that image, no question. I don't think I'd go larger though. Pixel peeping is over-rated anyways!!
Ultimately it's what makes you happy, since they are for personal satisfaction. I am only doing it (pixel peeping) to confirm max. printing size, since I'll often print 16x20's for exhibits.
Regards,
Marc