OT: Help with macro lense

Technically, it doesn't have to be 2.8-- however, most macro lenses are 2.8. The important number to look for is the 1:1 designation. The Quantaray that you linked to is only 1:2 and only 50mm, which is almost useless. A 50mm with 1:2 magnification is just not close enough to take closeups of corals that are way in the back of the tank.

The second lens you linked is a zoom lens with something like a 1:3 magnification and variable aperture. People throw around the "macro" term but this is not a "true" macro lens. This is good for general all-around photography but you're going to get frustrated if you try to use it for closeups as it will not let you get closer to the subject (it will not focus).

If you're really in a budget, there are alternatives to a real macro lens.. you can use diopters (Canon 250D or 500D) or get Kenko extension tubes (about $35 each or $100 for a set) extension tubes are good in a pinch but the drawback is that you will lose some light, which means slower shutter speed. If I were you, I would just save up for a real macro lens like the one on the link I provided. That Canon 100mm macro will retain its value LONG after your T1i had stopped working. Lenses are investments and they hold their value well.

check this post by Doug (Beerguy) about macro lenses
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1762095
 
thanks, i think i'll just save for that. ebay sells used. do u think buying used lenses are worth it? i dont think they will give a warranty for it.

thanks
 
If you're on a budget, a 100mm macro is good. If you have the cash, get a canon 100mm L macro.... You also need to invest in a tripod too, if you're into macro photography.
 
I wouldn't buy from ebay for a used lens. Not worth it. Anything wrong after you use it and you've lost all your money. You can go cheap on the body, but the lens is where it counts. Save up and buy a new one.
 
I have at both of the regular lense and the L lense. "L" lense is much better but not worth it for casual photogrpher.
 
i have had good luck buying used both form photo.net (user generated classified) and ebay. look it over really well once you get it and deal with any problems asap. i would be more weary buying a used body then a used lens- more to go wrong.

i have never had a piece of equip break under warranty anyway. i haven't had any photo equip used or new break (knock on wood) and all the other expensive stuff would have cost me an arm and a leg vs buying new and still would have broken after the warranty was up any way. "i'm talking about YOU RED DRAGON & X-BOX 360" both break with in 6 months of warranty expiring, its a scam. Buy used and save money. Paypal will reimburse you if you get screwed.

JMO- but you have to do what ever you are comfortable with. BTW i love that lens and on a crop't sensor its closer to a 160mm :D
 
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