Now that I've got a DSLR, which macro lens should I buy?

[nycfishncorals]

Hello. I am going to get Nikon with Xoom are u guys using. Glitter and are u shooting in water or just from above

 

[Misled]

Ok, so let's try to figure this out. First off, camera brand doesn't matter. The thing is, a zoom lens isn't what we normally use to shoot things in the tank. A true macro lens is what you're looking for.
In your pm you asked about using filters. I do not use them. If you shoot in RAW format, you can adjust the white balance in post with either the software that comes with the camera, or with Photoshop.

 

[nycfishncorals]

Is the 3200 a good camera to start with for taking coral photos

 

[Misled]

That's fine. Remember, the lens becomes the most important part for shooting tanks.

 

[nycfishncorals]

Ok if I go with the 3200 camera can u tell me the macro lens you suggest I go with would like to get right first time

 

[nycfishncorals]

Is a D5000 or the 3200 a better choice on body

 

[nycfishncorals]

Would this set be. Good start

 

[Misled]

The cameras are fine. Even though the lens says macro, they are not true macros. A true macro will give you 1:1 magnification. The one you listed won't. I'm not saying you can't get close, but a true macro will do better. Something like the Nikon 105 macro will do the best.

 

[nycfishncorals]

Thank you.
The Nikon I'll look can u list 2 other choice for lens u would say acceptable
Trying to find 2nd hand.

Thanks again.

 

[Misled]

Sigma 105mm 2.8 macro
Tamron 90mm 2.8 macro

 

[nycfishncorals]

Is a tamaron
Adaptall-2 70-150mm f/3.5 ok I have a buddy willing to give me one

 

[Misled]

That may or may not work on your camera. You may loose some auto functions. It isn't a true macro lens so I don't know how close you can get for tank shots. I've never used any Adaptall stuff.

 

[nycfishncorals]

What does the other letters means when shopping I see SP AF 90mm Portrait 2.8 is this different ?

 

[nycfishncorals]

Is this what I’m looking for
Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Di SP AF/MF 1:1 Macro Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

 

[Misled]

That's a really good lens.

 

[jimbo78]

Any ideas on a macro for a 70d ? The cheapest that will still get the job done.

 

[Misled]

Jim, I'll hit you up when I get settled in tonight.

 

[Misled]

So from what I've read, (I shoot with Nikon), the best is the Canon 105 2.8 macro. The other two that are just behind it would be the Sigma 105 2.8 and the Tamron 90 2.8. Tokina also makes a 105 2.8 but you don't see it around much. Any of those should fit the bill. If you're looking to save a bit, look into used. Both B&H and Adorama are very reliable.