Advice on buying a macro lens for my Canon.

[RaeRae]

I am looking to buy a macro hundred millimeter lens for cannon. I've searched around and they run anywhere between 350 to $800. Can someone give me some advice and where I might find a used one? or give me any kind of advice that could direct me in which way to go. Thank you

 

[jroovers]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/194451-USA/Canon_4657A006_100mm_f_2_8_USM_Macro.html

In that price range the non-IS 100mm Canon is probably your best bet. The Tamron and Sigma macros are also very nice and well reviewed (I've only used the Tamron 90). I'd check your local classifieds, as well as the photography on the net forum, or used lens that B and H and similar stores may have available.

 

[3dees]

you can find much cheaper prices on used macro's on e-bay. older Canon's or third party lenses like Sigma and Tamron. for tank macro, you don't really need SI or even auto focus since you will probably be using a tri-pod. personally I use a Sigma 150mm 2.8 macro on my Nikon. awesome lens and the 150mm will let you sit farther from the glass. 100mm would be my second choice but nothing shorter.

 

[IPT]

can also look at the Canon site for refurbished lenses. KEH is another reputable professional dealer like B and H. Also classified on photography forums but at least with Ebay there is some sort of buyer protection.

 

[RaeRae]

I noticed several of them say from Japan. What does that mean? Is it a lower grade or just a cheap lens

 

[dendronepthya]

Canon is Japanese. The lenses are made in Japan.

 

[blitz49]

Or you can check this option out. http://photography.tutsplus.com/articles/a-poor-mans-guide-to-budget-macro-photography--photo-2857

 

[woodnaquanut]

I noticed several of them say from Japan. What does that mean? Is it a lower grade or just a cheap lens

Yes they are all made in Japan but often the 'from Japan' means they are grey market lenses.

See:
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/gray-market.htm