Need more depth for macro pics-

[KEEPERZ]

I have a cannon xti with the 100mm f2.8 but my tank is 48" front to back and would like to get macros deeper in the tank-seems like I can't get as deep as I would like with the current lens, can I get a few recommendations on a new lens that would do a better job? Deeper meaning further away from the front acrylic panel-thanks

 

[t5Nitro]

Can't you just use a lower aperture to get more depth?

 

[gregr]

Lowering the aperture (making the aperture smaller, which means using a bigger f-number) will get you more depth of field but what is needed is a longer focal length. You've got a few options: first is to get a longer macro lens. Sigma makes a 150mm macro lens and Canon makes a 180. Another option would be to get a teleconverter (aka converter or extender or doubler). Canon makes 1.4x and 2x converters but you might need a small extension tube in between the camera body and lens to make them work. Last option: crop the picture

 

[Absolute Reef]

You might wanna try extention tubes.

 

[gregr]

Extension tubes will shorten the minimum focus distance- not what he wants with the 100mm macro lens, but he could use those tubes with a longer macro lens [150 or 180] and get some seriously excellent shots.

 

[KEEPERZ]

Thank you for the replies-by the way your pics are awesome Gregr-so the 150 or the 180 is the way to go, I have read about the extension tubes and coverter and so forth, but I would rather get as close as possible with the stronger lens then add if needed,sorry if I confused anyone about getting more depth,not depth of field, there's alot of good stuff towards the back of my tank that I cannot get close up macros of-I'll try to sell my 100mm now-thanks Joe

 

[gregr]

Just remember those longer macro lenses are big and heavy and you'll need a tripod with them most of the time-- it's a compromise any way you look at it.

 

[Blazer88]

KEEPERZ, I was in the same position as you a few months back. I ended up selling my Canon 100mm and got the Sigma 150mm, 1.4x TC, and Kenko extension tubes for more flexibility. I will attest that isn't not real easy to hand-hold a get clear shots since a faster shutter speed is required on the longer focal length, but it will give more magnification on stuff that is deeper in the tank. I generally reserve this lens for tripod/shutter-relase use only. I ended up also getting the EF-s 60mm F/2.8 for fish and other general shots as hand holding it is a breeze. The 100mm is a great compromise as I wouldn't want the Sigma 150mm as my only macro lense.

 

[KEEPERZ]

thanks Blazer for the insight-I sold the 100mm today and need to work on either the 150mm or 180mm-does anyone have any experience with the 180? I use a tripod most of the time,mainly due to my lack of photography skills, but I always felt short sighted and could never get the depth I wanted so I guess I will be having to deal with the extra weight issues.

 

[gregr]

I've used that lens a fair amount- it is sweet. You'll definitly want to use a tripod with it.

 

[KEEPERZ]

What do you guys think of the sigma 180mm -that cannon 180 is pretty expensive-

 

[gregr]

I just read thru a detailed review and it was very favorable. A bargain it appears, though they said the Sigma 150 was better.

 

[Ebn]

Most of the macro lenses in the 150mm and 180mm range are quite good regardless of brand.