Suggestions for macro lens for K-70?

Joyce Keay · 07-15-2017, 03:37 PM

Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay

gatorguy · 07-15-2017, 04:35 PM

Well there's only one good choice IMO: D FA100 WR.

But you're on a budget so have a look at the Sigma 70-300 Macro. Punches way a above it's weight, and since it's also a decent quality longish telephoto may work for much of your 3-day shoot.

EDIT: OOPS... I need to learn to read better. I missed that you have a 70-300 already. If you did not the Sigma at around $160 new and well under $100 used would have been my suggestion. Someone else will surely chime in with a budget recommendation.

**pepperberry farm** · 07-15-2017, 04:44 PM

several good macros in the marketplace - both manual and auto focus...

photolady95 · 07-15-2017, 05:02 PM

And you don't need autofocus for macro shots. So any 100mm, 90mm or 50mm would be fine and a lot cheaper than $500. I have a Tamron Adaptall 2 90mm I paid $239 for and love it.

**patrick9** · 07-15-2017, 05:13 PM

I have the Tamron 90 macro Pentax mount non-adaptall . and love it. I bought it used way I do not remember what I paid for it but it was south of $200

swanlefitte · 07-15-2017, 06:20 PM

If its not in studio i would suggest the largest focal length. I have a 70mm and that is close. A 50mm and a spider pic puts you in the web. Get a cheap 50mm with aperture ring (like pentax m) and a lens coupler that fits to one of your zooms and the 50mm. Very cheap and works great.

FreeSpirit9 · 07-15-2017, 06:27 PM

tamron-sp-af-90mm-f2-8-di-macro
Tamron SP AF 90mm F2.8 Di Macro Lens Reviews - Tamron Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database

Manufacturer description: The SP 90mm F/2.8 Di enjoys enviable DNA from Tamron's original SP 90mm F/2.8, further refined for the demands of high-resolution digital imaging. Extraordinary 1:1 (life-size) close up capacity, combined with what many consider an ideal portraiture focal length (when used on full-frame DSLR or 35mm SLR cameras) this prime optic was nicknamed "the portrait macro." Equally at home on APS-C DSLRs, rendering a picture angle equivalent of the 140mm lens on a full-frame DSLR or 35mm SLR camera, photographers appreciate the resulting increase in front element-to-subject distance and close-up photography. In addition, this 135mm-like picture angle is well-suited for environmental portraiture. Extraordinary sharpness, striking contrast and a remarkable absence of distortion combine to produce images of exceptional caliber.

photolady95 · 07-15-2017, 07:15 PM

The Tamron 90mm f2.8 I have is also 1:1, it's the f2.5 that needs the macro adapter to make it 1:1.

**ramseybuckeye** · 07-15-2017, 07:37 PM

I got an old Sigma 50/2.8 manual focus macro for under $100 that I am quite happy with, but I looked a long time before finding it.There are some used macros out there, if you can find one to get in your limited time frame. Definitely check the PF Marketplace.

Joyce Keay · 07-15-2017, 07:45 PM

Originally posted by gatorguy

Well there's only one good choice IMO: D FA100 WR.

But you're on a budget so have a look at the Sigma 70-300 Macro. Punches way a above it's weight, and since it's also a decent quality longish telephoto may work for much of your 3-day shoot.

EDIT: OOPS... I need to learn to read better. I missed that you have a 70-300 already. If you did not the Sigma at around $160 new and well under $100 used would have been my suggestion. Someone else will surely chime in with a budget recommendation.

What is the difference between the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras (Model A17P) and the Pentax 70-300 zoom? The Pentax does not say "macro" in its title. What makes the Tamron suitable for macro? Thanks.

photolady95 · 07-15-2017, 07:58 PM

Most macro lenses in zooms aren't true 1:1 macro. Most if not all are more in the range of 1:2 or 1:3. Which means that your object won't be life size like with a true macro lens.

**Alex645** · 07-15-2017, 09:21 PM

Originally posted by Joyce Keay

Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay

Why not rent? Lensrental.com has the Pentax DFA 100mm f/2.8 macro WR for $49 for 7 days

LensRentals.com - Rent a Pentax SMC D FA 100mm f/2.8 WR Macro

or the Pentax DA 35mm f/2.8 Limited Macro for $37 for 7 days

LensRentals.com - Rent a Pentax SMC DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited

The 100mm will let you take those macros further away from your subject, thus avoiding scaring them off or getting your own shadow in the shot plus it's weather resistant.

The 35mm requires you get closer to the subject and is not weather resistant, but it's a lot more portable/light and one of the sharpest Pentax primes. The 100mm is no slouch either.

And if you fall in love with either macro, I'm pretty sure there is an option to buy it used. Macro is a specialization that some photographers love or others rarely use. If you find you love it, I think either of these two lenses are worth their price, but it would be a bit crazy to just drop $400-$550 on either one new without 'test driving'.

Adam · 07-15-2017, 09:46 PM

Originally posted by Joyce Keay

Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay

The D FA 50mm is a little bit more affordable, and I'd say the working distance is quite manageable on APS-C.

amazon.com : Pentax SMCP-D FA 50mm f/2.8 Lens for Pentax and Samsung Digital SLR Cameras (OLD MODEL) : Camera Lenses : Camera & Photo?tag=pentaxforums-20&

**UncleVanya** · 07-15-2017, 09:48 PM

The DCR-150 Raynox add on lens will work very well as a macro add-on.

https://www.amazon.com/Raynox-DCR-150-Snap-On-Macro-Lens/dp/B0007KS7D0/ref=s...ds=raynox+lens

Joyce Keay · 07-16-2017, 04:17 AM

Originally posted by UncleVanya

The DCR-150 Raynox add on lens will work very well as a macro add-on.

amazon.com : Raynox DCR-150 Snap-On Macro Lens : Camera Lenses : Camera & Photo?tag=pentaxforums-20&

Hi, Thank you very much. I think this will be the perfect answer to my problem. I've just ordered it from Amazon with a guaranteed delivery of Tuesday. That will give me a little time to play around with it before the shoot.

---------- Post added 07-16-17 at 04:22 AM ----------

Originally posted by Joyce Keay

Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay

Thank you all for your responses to my question about getting a macro lens. I've ordered the Raynox DCR-160 snap-on lens as suggested by UncleVanya. Amazon guarantees a Tuesday delivery that will give me time to play with it before the shoot.

07-15-2017, 03:37 PM	#1
Joyce Keay Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2016 Posts: 123	Suggestions for macro lens for K-70? Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay

07-15-2017, 09:46 PM	#13
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	Originally posted by Joyce Keay Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay The D FA 50mm is a little bit more affordable, and I'd say the working distance is quite manageable on APS-C. amazon.com : Pentax SMCP-D FA 50mm f/2.8 Lens for Pentax and Samsung Digital SLR Cameras (OLD MODEL) : Camera Lenses : Camera & Photo?tag=pentaxforums-20& Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

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07-15-2017, 04:35 PM	#2
gatorguy Moderator Join Date: Feb 2015 Location: Central Florida Photos: Gallery Posts: 6,092	Well there's only one good choice IMO: D FA100 WR. But you're on a budget so have a look at the Sigma 70-300 Macro. Punches way a above it's weight, and since it's also a decent quality longish telephoto may work for much of your 3-day shoot. EDIT: OOPS... I need to learn to read better. I missed that you have a 70-300 already. If you did not the Sigma at around $160 new and well under $100 used would have been my suggestion. Someone else will surely chime in with a budget recommendation.

07-15-2017, 04:44 PM	#3
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,679	several good macros in the marketplace - both manual and auto focus...

07-15-2017, 05:02 PM	#4
photolady95 Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: May 2009 Location: Cruising the forum watching his back Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,712	And you don't need autofocus for macro shots. So any 100mm, 90mm or 50mm would be fine and a lot cheaper than $500. I have a Tamron Adaptall 2 90mm I paid $239 for and love it.

07-15-2017, 05:13 PM	#5
patrick9 Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Murfreesboro Tennessee Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 3,458	I have the Tamron 90 macro Pentax mount non-adaptall . and love it. I bought it used way I do not remember what I paid for it but it was south of $200

07-15-2017, 06:20 PM	#6
swanlefitte Pentaxian Join Date: May 2015 Location: Minneapolis Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,068	If its not in studio i would suggest the largest focal length. I have a 70mm and that is close. A 50mm and a spider pic puts you in the web. Get a cheap 50mm with aperture ring (like pentax m) and a lens coupler that fits to one of your zooms and the 50mm. Very cheap and works great.

07-15-2017, 06:27 PM	#7
FreeSpirit9 Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Queensland, Australia Photos: Gallery Posts: 557	tamron-sp-af-90mm-f2-8-di-macro Tamron SP AF 90mm F2.8 Di Macro Lens Reviews - Tamron Lenses - Pentax Lens Review Database Manufacturer description: The SP 90mm F/2.8 Di enjoys enviable DNA from Tamron's original SP 90mm F/2.8, further refined for the demands of high-resolution digital imaging. Extraordinary 1:1 (life-size) close up capacity, combined with what many consider an ideal portraiture focal length (when used on full-frame DSLR or 35mm SLR cameras) this prime optic was nicknamed "the portrait macro." Equally at home on APS-C DSLRs, rendering a picture angle equivalent of the 140mm lens on a full-frame DSLR or 35mm SLR camera, photographers appreciate the resulting increase in front element-to-subject distance and close-up photography. In addition, this 135mm-like picture angle is well-suited for environmental portraiture. Extraordinary sharpness, striking contrast and a remarkable absence of distortion combine to produce images of exceptional caliber.

07-15-2017, 07:15 PM	#8
photolady95 Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: May 2009 Location: Cruising the forum watching his back Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,712	The Tamron 90mm f2.8 I have is also 1:1, it's the f2.5 that needs the macro adapter to make it 1:1.

07-15-2017, 07:37 PM	#9
ramseybuckeye Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Hampstead, NC Photos: Gallery Posts: 17,292	I got an old Sigma 50/2.8 manual focus macro for under $100 that I am quite happy with, but I looked a long time before finding it.There are some used macros out there, if you can find one to get in your limited time frame. Definitely check the PF Marketplace.

07-15-2017, 07:45 PM	#10
Joyce Keay Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2016 Posts: 123 Original Poster	Originally posted by gatorguy Well there's only one good choice IMO: D FA100 WR. But you're on a budget so have a look at the Sigma 70-300 Macro. Punches way a above it's weight, and since it's also a decent quality longish telephoto may work for much of your 3-day shoot. EDIT: OOPS... I need to learn to read better. I missed that you have a 70-300 already. If you did not the Sigma at around $160 new and well under $100 used would have been my suggestion. Someone else will surely chime in with a budget recommendation. What is the difference between the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras (Model A17P) and the Pentax 70-300 zoom? The Pentax does not say "macro" in its title. What makes the Tamron suitable for macro? Thanks.

07-15-2017, 07:58 PM	#11
photolady95 Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: May 2009 Location: Cruising the forum watching his back Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,712	Most macro lenses in zooms aren't true 1:1 macro. Most if not all are more in the range of 1:2 or 1:3. Which means that your object won't be life size like with a true macro lens.

07-15-2017, 09:21 PM	#12
Alex645 Site Supporter Join Date: May 2015 Location: Kaneohe, HI Photos: Albums Posts: 3,526	Originally posted by Joyce Keay Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay Why not rent? Lensrental.com has the Pentax DFA 100mm f/2.8 macro WR for $49 for 7 days LensRentals.com - Rent a Pentax SMC D FA 100mm f/2.8 WR Macro or the Pentax DA 35mm f/2.8 Limited Macro for $37 for 7 days LensRentals.com - Rent a Pentax SMC DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited The 100mm will let you take those macros further away from your subject, thus avoiding scaring them off or getting your own shadow in the shot plus it's weather resistant. The 35mm requires you get closer to the subject and is not weather resistant, but it's a lot more portable/light and one of the sharpest Pentax primes. The 100mm is no slouch either. And if you fall in love with either macro, I'm pretty sure there is an option to buy it used. Macro is a specialization that some photographers love or others rarely use. If you find you love it, I think either of these two lenses are worth their price, but it would be a bit crazy to just drop $400-$550 on either one new without 'test driving'.

07-15-2017, 09:48 PM	#14
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 28,407	The DCR-150 Raynox add on lens will work very well as a macro add-on. https://www.amazon.com/Raynox-DCR-150-Snap-On-Macro-Lens/dp/B0007KS7D0/ref=s...ds=raynox+lens

07-16-2017, 04:17 AM	#15
Joyce Keay Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2016 Posts: 123 Original Poster	Originally posted by UncleVanya The DCR-150 Raynox add on lens will work very well as a macro add-on. amazon.com : Raynox DCR-150 Snap-On Macro Lens : Camera Lenses : Camera & Photo?tag=pentaxforums-20& Hi, Thank you very much. I think this will be the perfect answer to my problem. I've just ordered it from Amazon with a guaranteed delivery of Tuesday. That will give me a little time to play around with it before the shoot. ---------- Post added 07-16-17 at 04:22 AM ---------- Originally posted by Joyce Keay Hi, I have the Pentax K-70 with the 18-135 kit lens plus the 70-300 zoom lens. I'm going on a 3-day photo shoot in a few days and the instructor has suggested we take along a macro lens. I don't really want to spend $500 for a macro lens. Any suggestions? I think I'd need to order it from Amazon by sometime Sunday. Thanks. Joyce Keay Thank you all for your responses to my question about getting a macro lens. I've ordered the Raynox DCR-160 snap-on lens as suggested by UncleVanya. Amazon guarantees a Tuesday delivery that will give me time to play with it before the shoot.