Between Macro Lenses

[Michael R]

I'm currently looking around to purchase a macro lens for my Nikon D70s.

I had a used 60mm f/2.8 non-D, which I sold not long ago as the working distance was quite uncomfortable for me.

It's now basically a toss-up between three lenses:

1. Nikon 105mm VR
2. Sigma 105mm
3. Sigma 150mm

I know that most of you would say go for the Nikon if you can, but why would I want to (you tell me)? I heard that VR does nothing for macro, so what exactly is better about it?

Also, how good is the Sigma 150mm? The long working distance seems quite appealing to me, but is it a good macro lens?

Thanks,

Michael

 

[Phyl]

Nikon made a 105mm non-VR version. That's a fine lens for macro work as you don't need the VR for macro work. Truth be told, it could be manual focus too, because you won't want to autofocus either.

I've seen pics with the sigma 150 that I thought were good. I'd consider that lens (especially on an FX camera). I would think that within 2 years Nikon will be making an FX cam in a pro-sumer body.

 

[maxalmon]

I have the Nikon 105mm AF/VR, Great lens and I have no complaints.........But I always shoot in manual with the VR off, go figure...........Spent money on things I don't use....LOL

 

[Michael R]

I really would prefer to buy a new lens this time.

Also, the price on the used non-VR 105mm doesn't justify it either way; I'd rather have the VR new for $100 more or the Sigma new for $200 less.

 

[hunkafish]

Buy the 105 VR the lens is awesome IN VR when carrying and using as point and shoot. damn it takes great pictures and as a Macro lens it is the best. That VR works magic while walking around. I havn't even read the manual yet, just messing around and it makes me look good. With my Sigma lenses I would have to shoot many many shots to get a decent pic, with the Nikon 105 its hard to find a bad one.

 

[juniormc8704]

i dont know where the writeup is anymore, but someone did a test will all nikon, canon, sigma, and tamron macro lenses, and BY FAR the best lens was the Tamron 90mm. I have a sigma 150, and its nice, but you have to be way farther away from your tank to get in focus. which at times is impossible. I have the tamron 90mm, and would never think of replacing it until a whole new line were to come out, and even then, i will still likely continue to shoot with it.

 

[ishmael]

I have to agree with juniormc8704. I have the nikon d70. I researched for about a year and finally pulled the trigger
on the Tamron. This is a good review:
http://www.nikonians.org/html/resources/non-nikon_articles/tamron/90_macro/index.html
I was reluctant to go "tamron" but after reading the
above review and many others, I spent the 450 and
am very glad I did.
I am sure you will be happy with any of the lenses you are considering.
Good luck in choosing!

 

[ishmael]

Here is a quick sample shot of my Bubble using the D70 With Tamron 90:

 

[Phyl]

No offense intended, Ishmael, but that shot doesn't appear to have anything in focus. Do you have another sample?

As for the Sigma 150, it allows the front of the lens to be 10" or so from your subjct. I don't know about you folks, but a good portion of my tank is at least 10" from the front glass. That seems like an ideal focus distance to me. I have the Nikon 105 and there is plenty of my tank that is out of 1:1 range. You can always backup, but you can't always get closer!

 

[ishmael]

No offense taken!
I am sorry if that shot doesn't do the lens justice.
Like I said, I took it as a goof , just to post something. I was only concerned with the single tentacle, capturing the transparency. Didn't even clean the glass!


By the way, this site has an excellent discussion of the challenges you are refering to:

http://www.kevinwilley.com/l3_topic05.htm

Here are a few more shots. Again, not too much effort spent here.

 

[Phyl]

These were all taken with the 105VR.

 

[juniormc8704]

lol, both are great lenses, but i can say thats no d70 your firing over there phyl.=)

this is with a D80 and Tamron 90mm.

Phyl is tops, and as far as im concerned, so i would take his word over mine anyday.

 

[ishmael]

THOSE are way nicer than mine. I am so humiliated......

 

[Phyl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11858819#post11858819 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by juniormc8704
lol, both are great lenses, but i can say thats no d70 your firing over there phyl.=)

Thanks.

Most of those photos were taken with the D200 though, so not a WORLD away from the D80. Lots of practice.

 

[Mrs. Bubbles]

I think juniormc8704's shots are gorgeous! Much nicer than Phylis's. Jmo....

 

[Phyl]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11859371#post11859371 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mrs. Bubbles
I think juniormc8704's shots are gorgeous! Much nicer than Phylis's. Jmo....

Welcome to RC.

I think Jr's shots are great as well.