reversing

[cinci-photo]

I've been seeing a lot about reversing. What exactly is it? I haven't researched it too much, but it seems the experts are here. Can anyone help explain it. My guess is there's an adaptor that lets you mount a lens "reversed" . Then what? It works like a normal lens only allows closer focusing? HELP PLEASE.

[Alex Paul]

Yes Jamey that is almost right...The adapter allows you to thread the reversed lens to your main lens by way of the filter threads on each of the lenses...The set up is very challenging to use and takes a lot of patience, tips from current users, and a lot of experimenting with your particular combination... It requires flash bracket and off camera flash chord to get the flash right to the end of the lens, as working distance to subject is usually 1 inch or less.... Focusing has to be done manually and the main trick to avoid heavy vignetting is to open the Aperture of the reversed lens wide open.. It allows you to get well over 1:1 and is only really useful on the realllllly small things as depth of focus is verrrrry thin and so for good focus the bug needs to be very small to fit in the field..... Once mastered it is extremely cool to see the details they will show you ......Hope this helps.....Alex, Here are a couple of examples..
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/AlexPaul_2006/Macro/10%2006%20Macros/reverse50dustsizebugs2310060022.jpg
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/AlexPaul_2006/Macro/10%2006%20Macros/Centipederev5010060132.jpg
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/AlexPaul_2006/Macro/newest%20shots/bugolinifest20872.jpg
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/AlexPaul_2006/Macro/newest%20shots/Antwithreverse500941.jpg

[dpastern]

Pretty much what Alex said.

Dave

PS Alex lovely shots, especially the spider eyes!

[Rob-NC]

Alex, those are some wicked photos!

[mxwphoto]

Wow awesome shots! You must have a real steady hand! :D

[Alex Paul]

Just trying to spread the love:D :D :D.... Thanks guys. Reversing IS cool....Alex