Ok,
I have figured out a really cheap and effective true macro, with no need for ring flash or any other expensive kit..
(more than 1:1, as comparison shots with my Sigma 1:1 50mm are far smaller per subject. Not sure if 2:1 but close)
50mm Pentax A f1.7...about £50 ebay
48mm of extension rings...No more as focus not possible if extension rings add up to more than the FL of the lens, no less as you wont get true macro (less than 1:1 with 32mm extension etc.) more on length later. Extension rings cost approx £20 on ebay
On board flash!!! honest!
ISO 320
F16 or F11 (F16 for more depth, F11 gives astonishing exposure, almost no PP needed, except normal RAW sharpening)
180th Shutter
The length of the lens set up is not long enough to occlude the on-board flash, which is great.
These settings have not given me a bad exposure yet!
I know that using rings is basic and well known by most people, but nobody I have talked to has believed the on board flash can be used like this.
I use a K10D, has anyone tried with DS/K110/100/200? Please let me know
Dave
PS, hope they are sharp, the forum's compression always wreaks havoc with my posts, any tips on how upload? other peoples seem really sharp sometimes, thx.