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06-28-2010, 09:15 AM   #1
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Best Macro Lens

I am looking for a good macro lens, what would you recommend for the money to be a good lens, 50-100mm would be prefered. I shoot mainly bugs, and flowers if that helps. Thanks.

06-28-2010, 09:29 AM   #2
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The SMC Pentax D FA 100mm WR (weather-resistant) macro is great, as are its older cousins: the D FA 100mm and FA 100mm, all F2.8. 100mm is the perfect all-around focal length for macro, and you definitely can't go wrong with a WR lens.

For more details on these lenses as well as for ratings and reviews, visit our lens database: Pentax Lens Review Database - Lens Listings

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06-28-2010, 09:40 AM   #3
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if you got the money and the luck, a A 200mm macro would be killer! Next would be the Sigma 180mm Macro, which is also killer.

Of course the best of the current bunch has to be the DFA 100mm WR.
06-28-2010, 09:42 AM   #4
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Strongly recommend the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro if you can't afford the DFA 100/2.8 WR.

06-28-2010, 10:34 AM   #5
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QuoteOriginally posted by A.M.92 Quote
I am looking for a good macro lens, what would you recommend for the money to be a good lens, 50-100mm would be prefered. I shoot mainly bugs, and flowers if that helps. Thanks.
the best lens is the one you use.

Tamron 90mm/2.8 Macro is the best bang for the buck.

Doubles as a long portrait lens.

If you want WR and have $$$ the Pentax 100 WR is the best option.

Last edited by Aristophanes; 06-28-2010 at 07:35 PM.
06-28-2010, 10:45 AM   #6
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If only the sigma 150mm F/2.8 was in Pentax mount

That would be the best price/performance wise IMHO.

06-28-2010, 10:51 AM   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by Aristophanes Quote
the best lens is the one you use.

Tamron 90mm/2.8 Macrois the best bang for the buck.

Doubles as a long portrait lens.

If you want WR and have $$$ the Pentax 100 WR is the best option.
.......+3..........

06-28-2010, 10:59 AM   #8
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great macros that are cheap and easy to find:

DA35, Tamron 90/2.8, Sigma 105/2.8, Sigma 50/2.8

great macros that are a bit pricey and are rare:

FA50/2.8, DFA 50/2.8, Sigma 70/2.8, Tamron 90/2.5 BBAR, Vivitar S1/Tokina 90/2.5, FA100/2.8, WR 100/2.8, DFA 100/2.8.

I would go for something with a longer focal length that you could buy for $300. usually a Tamron sells for that price. but some 100/105mm lenses sell for the same price in the new/used market.
06-28-2010, 10:59 AM   #9
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The Vivitar Series 1 105/2.5 ofcourse !

Don't forget the Sigma 105 !

Edit : Never mind ! Pentaxor beat me to it !

Last edited by dantuyhoa; 06-28-2010 at 11:01 AM. Reason: duh !
06-28-2010, 11:56 AM   #10
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QuoteOriginally posted by Aristophanes Quote
the best lens is the one you use.

Tamron 90mm/2.8 Macrois the best bang for the buck.

Doubles as a long portrait lens.

If you want WR and have $$$ the Pentax 100 WR is the best option.
Thumbs up.
06-28-2010, 12:23 PM   #11
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I have used both the FA 100 macro and the Tamron 90mm SP Di Macro. I own the later. Both great lenses. the FA version of the Pentax 100 macro makes beautiful images, and it's constructed like a tank (in durability and heft.) The Tamron is well-constructed too, and I love its clever AF/MF focusing ring. I bought the Tamron with the idea of using it on film or digital, as both a portrait lens and macro lens. I'm not disappointed.
06-28-2010, 12:26 PM   #12
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Tammy 90mm excellent mid budget choice. DFA 100mm = 40% more USD for metal build, weather resistance, SMC coating.

Sigma 105mm - metal build but arguably lesser performer than the first two and heavier.
06-28-2010, 12:31 PM   #13
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I've had the A 100/2.8 macro for over 15 years now. This is an outstanding macro which gives you 1:1 magnification without extension. Brutally sharp, as a macro should be, it also serves as an excellent portrait lens. I even use it for birding from time to time.



This is an awesome lens if you can find a copy. It is manual focus of course but that is not really a big issue for macro work. On the plus side I never have to worry about motor failures. From a price standpoint it is no bargain and seems to command over $1,000 on EBAY.

Tom G

Last edited by 8540tomg; 06-28-2010 at 12:37 PM. Reason: typo
06-28-2010, 12:48 PM   #14
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tubes and enlarging lenses

Manual tubes and two enlarging lenses (50 and 105).

If the primary intent is macro then you will not need infinite focus (this solution will not work as a portrait setup).

A lot of macro work is manual focus so you will not need to be concerned about autofocus.

You will have to use the stop down method to set the aperture.

A used El Nikkor, Schneider Componon will get you going.

The footnote or signature to this post has a link to an article explaining how to use manual focus solutions.

This was taken hand held with an El Nikkor 105 - the lens is tact sharp and was purchased locally for $25.

06-28-2010, 02:13 PM   #15
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Voigtlander 125

Don't look for the Voigtlander 125mm 2.5. It isn't a very good lens and you wouldn't like it.

Infact if you do find it please forward it to me I'd be more than happy to help you dispose of it.
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