macro for k-01

krema · 09-30-2013, 06:10 PM

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what are some recommended AF and non-AF macro lenses for the k-01 in you experience?

my macro use is mainly natural subjects such as insects, flowers, and textures (gravel, sand, etc.).

if you could recommend both high priced and low priced lenses that would be great. i know that its not always the highest-priced lenses that get the best images.

thanks!
k

**jatrax** · 09-30-2013, 06:35 PM

I'm not sure there is a huge difference between any of the Pentax 100mm macros in pure image quality, they are all good. So high price = DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR and low price = Pentax M 100mm or maybe one of the Takumar 100mm macros, but you will need an adapter for those. Obviously each model has different features such as WR and AF. I have the DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR and it is a real joy to work with. My wife and I fight over who gets to use it

There are also several third party macros that get good comments but I have no experience with them.

SKwan · 09-30-2013, 07:19 PM

1) DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR
http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/06/17/2840031371484
http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/06/02/2840031370181996_l.jpg058_l.jpg

2) A50 F1.4 plus macro tube
http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/07/11/2840031373539779_l.jpg

For most situations, DFA100 is suggested. When low light or magnification>0.6, the 2nd is preferred.

Doundounba · 09-30-2013, 08:04 PM

Best value is surely Tamron SP Di 90mm F/2.8 Macro. A great lens, tack sharp, auto-focus with focus limiter for when you're not shooting macro. 100% recommended. Can be found brand new for quite a bit under $400 if you look a little (e.g. Prodigital2000 on Ebay).

For less money, I'd recommend Pentax-M 50mm F/4 plus extension tubes. Manual focus and you'll need to meter with the green button, but as long as you get tubes with a aperture lever, at least you can focus wide-open. Around $100 for the lens, maybe $50 for tubes with an aperture lever. With this combo you'll be able to exceed 1:1 macro too, but you'll lose infinity focus...

[EDIT:] See some of my macro shots here (best ones near the end)...

Last edited by Doundounba; 09-30-2013 at 08:08 PM. Reason: add link to macro galery

prime.partisan · 09-30-2013, 10:56 PM

I can only recommend on the low price side - Sigma 50mm f/2.8 1:1 macro manual focus. Small and quite light, crazy sharp, great color saturation to boot. Got mine for under $100 on Ebay.

Doundounba · 10-01-2013, 05:21 AM

Originally posted by prime.partisan

I can only recommend on the low price side - Sigma 50mm f/2.8 1:1 macro manual focus. Small and quite light, crazy sharp, great color saturation to boot. Got mine for under $100 on Ebay.

Lucky! Been hunting for a MF, 1:1, 50 or 55mm on Ebay and I always get sniped in the last 10 seconds it seems...

mamethot · 10-01-2013, 07:36 AM

Originally posted by Doundounba

Best value is surely Tamron SP Di 90mm F/2.8 Macro. A great lens, tack sharp, auto-focus with focus limiter for when you're not shooting macro. 100% recommended. Can be found brand new for quite a bit under $400 if you look a little (e.g. Prodigital2000 on Ebay).

[EDIT:] See some of my macro shots here (best ones near the end)...

I agree with you, the Tamron is a great value at this price.

prime.partisan · 10-01-2013, 10:43 AM

Originally posted by Doundounba

Lucky! Been hunting for a MF, 1:1, 50 or 55mm on Ebay and I always get sniped in the last 10 seconds it seems...

When I bought mine the seller had 2 copies for sale, and the other one stayed up there for weeks and eventually sold for $80 or so.

ChopperCharles · 10-02-2013, 02:57 PM

I disagree. The best value is the Promaster/Pentax AF 100mm f3.5 macro, especially if you can snag a copy with the matched close-up adapter. VERY sharp lens, both for macro AND for street shooting. It's one of my absolute favorite lenses, hands down. Under $200 (I paid $150) for autofocus... damn good deal if you ask me.

Charles.

Steinback · 10-02-2013, 03:22 PM

I just picked up the Vivitar version of the 100mm f/3.5 for $120 and my preliminary impression is good. AF is slow in lower light, but price/performance wise it is going to be hard to beat, especially if you want autofocus.

I have also used the A 50mm f/2.8 and the D-FA 50mm f/2.8 quite happily, with used prices in the $150 and $300 ranges respectively.

krema · 10-02-2013, 04:38 PM

thanks everyone for all of the practical information posted.

after briefly reading about the tamron 90mm and the absence of any negative reviews i'm leaning towards that lens despite the price.

about its price, amazon has it for $499, so apparently its a lens in demand. is this an ultrasonic motor lens as opposed to a screw driven lens? will this lens mount on old K-mount cameras? i started with all-manual film slr-s, all pentax, so using this lens on other camera bodies would be a plus.

i haven't had much time to investigate the others suggested and will as soon as i can.

thanks again
k

Doundounba · 10-02-2013, 04:56 PM

I've not bought from them, but Prodigital2000 is an Ebay seller based in Canada with a pretty impeccable reputation, and has the best price that I could find on the Tamron (new), with 1-day auctions starting at $US340 usually running most days (currently active auction link) with free shipping to Canada and *possibly* also to the US. If there's already a bid, it's up to you to decide if you want to bid up, but I've often seen them go with a single bid for $340. (I was about to purchase from them when I spotted a used version from Adorama for an irresistible price.) FWIW, I don't think you should pay $500 for this lens, as it is readily available for much less - even Amazon Canada currently has it listed for about $CDN400.

[EDIT:] Oh, and it's screw drive. Tamron has a new version out (model F004) but it's not available in Pentax mount. The Pentax lens is model 272E.

krema · 11-05-2014, 07:32 PM

Thanks to everyone who replied to this thread. I appreciate your helpful input.

After agonizing and self-torturing for several weeks (after re-reading these old threads I posted) I decided that I'll go for the Sigma 70mm 2.8.

Of all the lenses mentioned in this thread (and others that weren't) I found I liked its output most. For practical reasons, I think a bit under 100mm is better for my usage. I would like to have a full range of macro primes but its not financially possible, To compensate for that I'm going to use other cameras as "teleconverters." I have a cheap NEX, a cheap M43 and the mighty Q and will use adapters to get the longer focal lengths.

With the NEX I would like to buy a "speed booster" adapter which fortunately has an aperture ring. Here it is:

New Focal Reducer Speed Booster Adapter Pentax K PK Mount Lens to Sony E NEX 6 7 | eBay

Can anyone comment on the quality of this adapter?

Would it make the 70mm a 70mm on the NEX?

If so that would mean I could use the Sigma as a 70, 105, 140 and 385. I would like to use it on my old manual Pentax SLR but it would have to be fully open with no aperture ring to adjust it.

Thanks again!
K

**clackers** · 11-05-2014, 08:32 PM

Originally posted by krema

With the NEX I would like to buy a "speed booster" adapter which fortunately has an aperture ring. Here it is:

New Focal Reducer Speed Booster Adapter Pentax K PK Mount Lens to Sony E NEX 6 7 | eBay

Can anyone comment on the quality of this adapter?

I think many would say avoid putting glass adapters (like teleconverters) on bodies if possible, K.

Particularly low end ones like this.

Originally posted by krema

If so that would mean I could use the Sigma as a 70, 105, 140 and 385.

Not sure I follow, Krema.

The 70 would act as a 45mm or so FoV lens, and be a stop wider, effectively.

Where do the 105, 140 and 385 come into it?

LensBeginner · 11-06-2014, 02:11 AM

Well, I've got "good enough" results with a Kenko 2X APK Macro TELEPLUS MC7, but camera has always been a "lowly" K100DS, and I still have to try it on "the brick"... I fear I'll see every possible defect then, which has been so far masked (and not always with success) by the 6MP sensor...

09-30-2013, 06:10 PM	#1
krema Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2013 Posts: 38	macro for k-01 Staff note: This post may contain affiliate links, which means Pentax Forums may earn a small commission if a visitor clicks through and makes a purchase. If you would like to support the forum directly, you may also make a donation here. what are some recommended AF and non-AF macro lenses for the k-01 in you experience? my macro use is mainly natural subjects such as insects, flowers, and textures (gravel, sand, etc.). if you could recommend both high priced and low priced lenses that would be great. i know that its not always the highest-priced lenses that get the best images. thanks! k

10-02-2013, 04:56 PM	#12
Doundounba Pentaxian Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Montréal QC Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,351	I've not bought from them, but Prodigital2000 is an Ebay seller based in Canada with a pretty impeccable reputation, and has the best price that I could find on the Tamron (new), with 1-day auctions starting at $US340 usually running most days (currently active auction link) with free shipping to Canada and possibly also to the US. If there's already a bid, it's up to you to decide if you want to bid up, but I've often seen them go with a single bid for $340. (I was about to purchase from them when I spotted a used version from Adorama for an irresistible price.) FWIW, I don't think you should pay $500 for this lens, as it is readily available for much less - even Amazon Canada currently has it listed for about $CDN400. [EDIT:] Oh, and it's screw drive. Tamron has a new version out (model F004) but it's not available in Pentax mount. The Pentax lens is model 272E. Last edited by Doundounba; 10-02-2013 at 05:03 PM. Reason: Add links to Tamron Web site.

11-05-2014, 07:32 PM	#13
krema Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2013 Posts: 38 Original Poster	Great information Thanks to everyone who replied to this thread. I appreciate your helpful input. After agonizing and self-torturing for several weeks (after re-reading these old threads I posted) I decided that I'll go for the Sigma 70mm 2.8. Of all the lenses mentioned in this thread (and others that weren't) I found I liked its output most. For practical reasons, I think a bit under 100mm is better for my usage. I would like to have a full range of macro primes but its not financially possible, To compensate for that I'm going to use other cameras as "teleconverters." I have a cheap NEX, a cheap M43 and the mighty Q and will use adapters to get the longer focal lengths. With the NEX I would like to buy a "speed booster" adapter which fortunately has an aperture ring. Here it is: New Focal Reducer Speed Booster Adapter Pentax K PK Mount Lens to Sony E NEX 6 7 \| eBay Can anyone comment on the quality of this adapter? Would it make the 70mm a 70mm on the NEX? If so that would mean I could use the Sigma as a 70, 105, 140 and 385. I would like to use it on my old manual Pentax SLR but it would have to be fully open with no aperture ring to adjust it. Thanks again! K

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09-30-2013, 06:35 PM	#2
jatrax Site Supporter Join Date: May 2010 Location: Washington Cascades Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,991	I'm not sure there is a huge difference between any of the Pentax 100mm macros in pure image quality, they are all good. So high price = DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR and low price = Pentax M 100mm or maybe one of the Takumar 100mm macros, but you will need an adapter for those. Obviously each model has different features such as WR and AF. I have the DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR and it is a real joy to work with. My wife and I fight over who gets to use it There are also several third party macros that get good comments but I have no experience with them.

09-30-2013, 07:19 PM	#3
SKwan Forum Member Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Hong Kong Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 95	1) DFA 100mm f/2.8 WR http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/06/17/2840031371484 http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/06/02/2840031370181996_l.jpg058_l.jpg 2) A50 F1.4 plus macro tube http://static.dcfever.com/media/sharing/13/07/11/2840031373539779_l.jpg For most situations, DFA100 is suggested. When low light or magnification>0.6, the 2nd is preferred.

09-30-2013, 08:04 PM	#4
Doundounba Pentaxian Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Montréal QC Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,351	Best value is surely Tamron SP Di 90mm F/2.8 Macro. A great lens, tack sharp, auto-focus with focus limiter for when you're not shooting macro. 100% recommended. Can be found brand new for quite a bit under $400 if you look a little (e.g. Prodigital2000 on Ebay). For less money, I'd recommend Pentax-M 50mm F/4 plus extension tubes. Manual focus and you'll need to meter with the green button, but as long as you get tubes with a aperture lever, at least you can focus wide-open. Around $100 for the lens, maybe $50 for tubes with an aperture lever. With this combo you'll be able to exceed 1:1 macro too, but you'll lose infinity focus... [EDIT:] See some of my macro shots here (best ones near the end)... Last edited by Doundounba; 09-30-2013 at 08:08 PM. Reason: add link to macro galery

09-30-2013, 10:56 PM	#5
prime.partisan Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Posts: 198	I can only recommend on the low price side - Sigma 50mm f/2.8 1:1 macro manual focus. Small and quite light, crazy sharp, great color saturation to boot. Got mine for under $100 on Ebay.

10-01-2013, 05:21 AM	#6
Doundounba Pentaxian Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Montréal QC Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,351	Originally posted by prime.partisan I can only recommend on the low price side - Sigma 50mm f/2.8 1:1 macro manual focus. Small and quite light, crazy sharp, great color saturation to boot. Got mine for under $100 on Ebay. Lucky! Been hunting for a MF, 1:1, 50 or 55mm on Ebay and I always get sniped in the last 10 seconds it seems...

10-01-2013, 07:36 AM	#7
mamethot Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Greater Montreal Area Posts: 736	Originally posted by Doundounba Best value is surely Tamron SP Di 90mm F/2.8 Macro. A great lens, tack sharp, auto-focus with focus limiter for when you're not shooting macro. 100% recommended. Can be found brand new for quite a bit under $400 if you look a little (e.g. Prodigital2000 on Ebay). [EDIT:] See some of my macro shots here (best ones near the end)... I agree with you, the Tamron is a great value at this price.

10-01-2013, 10:43 AM	#8
prime.partisan Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Posts: 198	Originally posted by Doundounba Lucky! Been hunting for a MF, 1:1, 50 or 55mm on Ebay and I always get sniped in the last 10 seconds it seems... When I bought mine the seller had 2 copies for sale, and the other one stayed up there for weeks and eventually sold for $80 or so.

10-02-2013, 02:57 PM	#9
ChopperCharles Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Durham, nc Photos: Albums Posts: 954	I disagree. The best value is the Promaster/Pentax AF 100mm f3.5 macro, especially if you can snag a copy with the matched close-up adapter. VERY sharp lens, both for macro AND for street shooting. It's one of my absolute favorite lenses, hands down. Under $200 (I paid $150) for autofocus... damn good deal if you ask me. Charles.

10-02-2013, 03:22 PM	#10
Steinback Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: GTA, ON, Canada Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 1,673	I just picked up the Vivitar version of the 100mm f/3.5 for $120 and my preliminary impression is good. AF is slow in lower light, but price/performance wise it is going to be hard to beat, especially if you want autofocus. I have also used the A 50mm f/2.8 and the D-FA 50mm f/2.8 quite happily, with used prices in the $150 and $300 ranges respectively.

10-02-2013, 04:38 PM	#11
krema Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2013 Posts: 38 Original Poster	thanks everyone for all of the practical information posted. after briefly reading about the tamron 90mm and the absence of any negative reviews i'm leaning towards that lens despite the price. about its price, amazon has it for $499, so apparently its a lens in demand. is this an ultrasonic motor lens as opposed to a screw driven lens? will this lens mount on old K-mount cameras? i started with all-manual film slr-s, all pentax, so using this lens on other camera bodies would be a plus. i haven't had much time to investigate the others suggested and will as soon as i can. thanks again k

11-05-2014, 08:32 PM	#14
clackers Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Melbourne Photos: Albums Posts: 16,397	Originally posted by krema With the NEX I would like to buy a "speed booster" adapter which fortunately has an aperture ring. Here it is: New Focal Reducer Speed Booster Adapter Pentax K PK Mount Lens to Sony E NEX 6 7 \| eBay Can anyone comment on the quality of this adapter? I think many would say avoid putting glass adapters (like teleconverters) on bodies if possible, K. Particularly low end ones like this. Originally posted by krema If so that would mean I could use the Sigma as a 70, 105, 140 and 385. Not sure I follow, Krema. The 70 would act as a 45mm or so FoV lens, and be a stop wider, effectively. Where do the 105, 140 and 385 come into it?

11-06-2014, 02:11 AM	#15
LensBeginner Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Photos: Albums Posts: 4,696	Well, I've got "good enough" results with a Kenko 2X APK Macro TELEPLUS MC7, but camera has always been a "lowly" K100DS, and I still have to try it on "the brick"... I fear I'll see every possible defect then, which has been so far masked (and not always with success) by the 6MP sensor...