Macro Lens for Nikon D5300?

[JB63]

Thank you for the multiple inputs. The camera came with 2 lenses (both DX i.e. NOT full frame):
AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G
AF-S Nikkor 55-300mm 1:4.5-5.6GED

That said, would the 'proposed' lenses provide much better pictures than the above 2?
I've already tried th 18-55 and it is 'limited'

Also, and per Amazon, the off-brands are not much cheaper than the Nikkor ... probably thanks to the built-in zoom motor (in contrast with Canon).

 

[3dees]

Unfortunately, no. The nikon 60mm micro-nikkor f2.8 G lens is $549. The sigma 70mm macro f2.8 EX DG is $499. The Tamron SP AF60mm F2 IF lens is $524. The nikon 105mm micro-nikkor AFS VR F2.8 is $899. The Tamron 90 mm F2.8 VC is $749. Sigma doesn't really make a comparable lens to the Nikon 105mm.

imo, Sigma makes a better one. I have had a Canon 100mm macro, a Nikon 105mm macro and now use a Sigma 150mm macro. the Sigma just can't be beat. the new models have os but I find it is not that useful for macro. not knocking Nikon or Canon. if you can live without vibration reduction, you can get superb third party macros for much less money.

 

[3dees]

Thank you for the multiple inputs. The camera came with 2 lenses (both DX i.e. NOT full frame):
AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G
AF-S Nikkor 55-300mm 1:4.5-5.6GED

That said, would the 'proposed' lenses provide much better pictures than the above 2?
I've already tried th 18-55 and it is 'limited'

Also, and per Amazon, the off-brands are not much cheaper than the Nikkor ... probably thanks to the built-in zoom motor (in contrast with Canon).

those two are not true macros. manufacturers use the term "macro" loosely. they are actually close up lens'. a macro will get down to at least 1:1 and these lens' can't.

 

[JB63]

Here is another thought ... as I want to try this first before 'jumping in' ... Amazon sells some 'extension rings' that are to be placed between the lens and camera body. The last time I tried something like that was 20+ years ago and it worked fine (on a Minolta back then). What are pros/cons for such extension rings?

 

[Misled]

imo, Sigma makes a better one. I have had a Canon 100mm macro, a Nikon 105mm macro and now use a Sigma 150mm macro. the Sigma just can't be beat. the new models have os but I find it is not that useful for macro. not knocking Nikon or Canon. if you can live without vibration reduction, you can get superb third party macros for much less money.

For shooting tanks, somewhere in the 100mm range is best. It allows you to keep the front of the lens as close to the aquarium glass as possible. This helps keep the aquarium's glass out of the picture so to speak. The further you are from the glass, the more reflections you'll get.

I have a Sigma 50mm I use for items very close to the front of the tank. I use the Nikon 105mm for anything more than a few inches from the front glass.

Sigma also makes a 105mm macro. It's very nice but IMPO the price difference isn't that different either. The 150 is a great lens, (hence the name Bugma). A bit more range than the 105, but like I said, for shooting tanks you want to be as close to the aquarium's glass as possible.

 

[JB63]

those two are not true macros. manufacturers use the term "macro" loosely. they are actually close up lens'. a macro will get down to at least 1:1 and these lens' can't.

Agreed, those won't focus for too close a subject.

 

[ken6217]

I know this is a little off topic, but what is the best way to shoot tanks with a macro lens? How do you handle lighting and glass reflection?

Thanks,
Ken

 

[Misled]

Read the stickys here.

 

[ken6217]

OK, thanks.
Ken

 

[dkeller_nc]

Here is another thought ... as I want to try this first before 'jumping in' ... Amazon sells some 'extension rings' that are to be placed between the lens and camera body. The last time I tried something like that was 20+ years ago and it worked fine (on a Minolta back then). What are pros/cons for such extension rings?

An extension tube or bellows works quite well, but on a modern camera you give up autofocus, autoexposure, and autoflash output (if used), so it's a totally manual operation. Having said that, with a digital camera you get an instant result on the LCD screen, so manual operation isn't nearly as tricky as it was in the days of film cameras.

 

[JB63]

Thank you. I think I'll try that route first. The full-auto way is, IMHO, not the proper way to learn about the intricacies of the specific camera. With manual mode (extension rings), the learning curve is a bit steep but really worth it. I must mention my 'other' hobby is astro-photography, and there, the T-mount I have comes with an assortment of rings, all useful.

Thanks for all the help.