Macro Lens Advice

[smorseg]

Hello All,

I've just about decided on a Nikon AF 60mm f2.8D micro lens for my D50 SLR. I was just wondering if anyone here has had any experience with it or something similar to help me with my decision. There's such a huge jump in price between this and the 105/200mm lenses and I'm not sure it's really worth it for an initial macro lense purchase.

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks!!

[jwhitten]

Hi George,

I have a Nikon 50mm macro lens that I bought over 20 years ago for my FE2. I still use it with my D70 now and then.

I recently purchased a Sigma 70-300mm lens that has a macro setting on it. I can focus from several feet away which is very convenient in a lot of situations. The Nikon lens is faster though. The Sigma lens is incredibly sharp and with the range it provides, I'm very happy with it.

Joe

[MarieBoyer]

George:

I bought mine new for around $399. It has been worth every penny. Let me tell you, before I parted with that money, I did serious research. I looked closely at the Tamron 90 and Sigma 105. The major selling point for the 60 was its hand-holdability. I am not the type of person who wants to walk through the woods looking for great shots while lugging a tripod around. So, I wanted a lens that would allow for handheld shots.

Also, if you must use the onboard flash in a pinch, there is no problem with it. Owners of both the Sigma and Tamron told me the lenses were too long to use the onboard flash without some darkness on the edges.

I love the lens for both macro and portraits. Also, because it is only a 60 and it has an f/2.8 aperture, you can use it in low light, indoors, without a flash quite nicely.

Rather than post a lot of photos here, let me give you the link to my smugmug (floral) gallery that has what little I have taken with this lens so far. Total newbie, but it will give you a sense of what a newbie can do with this lens, anyway. My floral gallery is at this link:
http://marieboyer.smugmug.com/gallery/1386005

Meanwhile, here is a non-macro, low light shot from inside my church with the 60:
http://marieboyer.smugmug.com/photos/65591679-M.jpg

Best of luck George. I say go for the 60! You will love it.

[smorseg]

Joe -- I've got a Nikon 70-300mm that I'm very happy with. It's a great lense for sports/action shots and it does a pretty good job with macro.

Marie -- Your flower shots are lovely! The church photo is incredible!

I do believe I'm sold on the 60mm:). Thanks so much for your input!