How do you do Macro?

[TooManyHobbies]

I've always used close-up filters (or built in setting on my old Nikon lens) and have been very happy with them, but I was wondering the percentages of how people do macro these days. My Sigma lens is called a macro, but I don't consider it one since it is not enough macro for me. It's not quite 1:1.

[TooManyHobbies]

One of the things I like about close up filters is that you can put them on a strong telephoto lens so you get good magnification without having to be super close to a subject that you might scare away. I don't have the patience to wait for some critter to come into my view.

[dpastern]

You missed tubes. I've voted under 'other', but you really should have included tubes as an option, they're just as valid as closeup lenses (and in fact better optically, since there's no glass being used). I also voted for macro lens, since I have a Sigma 150mm ;)

True macro I believe is anything life size or greater. So, all those lens that say 'macro' aren't really macro by strict definition. I've never played with closeup filters, but it's something worth considering for damselfly/dragonfly shots I suspect.

Dave

[Chazs]

I just took apart a really cheep ($5) 2x Haminex doubler. Took out the glass, and now have about a 20mm extension tube to go along with my 7mm Olympus extension tube (also use an Olympus to Canon adapter). Then I use a variety of Olympus Zuiko lenses. When I really want to get close, I add on an older 2x Vivitar doubler with macro extension (it extends out like a zoom lens). Youzer. But the added glass of the Vivitar degrades the image a bit.

[liza]

At this point, I'm just using the Canon 100mm, though I'd like to eventually purchase some extension tubes as well.

[TooManyHobbies]

You missed tubes.
Dave

I wasn't clear enough -- sorry. Lens extensions = Extension tubes, extension bellows, etc.

[Lester Wareham]

Voted for macro lenses but I do use tubes with big telephotos fro dragons and damsels.

[TooManyHobbies]

Is there any great forum post of wisdom about the advanatges and disadvantages of each? Please put a link here or post your wisdom.

[kross]

i use a macro lens, tc and at times, a telephoto with 500d+tc.... love them....:)

[dpastern]

I wasn't clear enough -- sorry. Lens extensions = Extension tubes, extension bellows, etc.

Ahh cool.

Dave

[Mike Bell]

Is there any great forum post of wisdom about the advanatges and disadvantages of each? Please put a link here or post your wisdom.

Not sure about wisdom but here is my advice. I suggest curious macro newbies with Canon DSLRs buy a set of extension tubes (Kenko in US, Jessops in UK) and try them on any lens you already have. The image quality should be very good (if the lens is good) and you haven't spent too much if you don't pursue the interest. But if you do fall in love with macro then get a proper Macro (1:1) lens. Once you've mastered 1:1 you can add the tubes and go for even more magnification.

This link gives advice on choosing macro lenses http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=94767&highlight=choosing+macro