Macro Photography with 20D: 550ex's or MT-24EX ?

[Paul_Mc]

Hey all (TGIF!)

As I decide to either get the Canon 100 or 180 macro lense I am deciding on which flash system to get as I can picture myself taking photos as f16 or great most times to achieve best DOF.

It seems that most do not own the MT-24EX but this would seem like the "ideal" system to purchase for macro photography.

However I also see people using dual 550ex's or a combo of 550 and 420 for example.

Which would be the ideal and better setup? Forget money, it's not an issue I can save if i have to.

Your input and experience opinions wanted! ;-)

Thanks!

[Nic]

I bought the Canon 100mm f2.8 USM Macro lens as well as the MT-24EX.

Although I have not used it yet in that combination from what I read it is an superb combination.

The Macro lens can also be used as a portrait lens and the MT-24EX can be used as a master in a wireless flash setup.

Although the combination is expensive (here in South Africa) it is worth it.

[J Rabin]

You never stated subject matter in this or previous 180mm vs 100mm thread. The subject determines lighting needs. To get more effective discussion describe subject matter.
Yesterday I used Kaiser lighted macro bench shooting indoor samples. NO FLASH on 10D. A dual 550 setup is a big lug. But, when you're doing macro outdoors, at some distance, on moving targets, it works. The nice thing about the ring light is ability to only use 1/2. For shooting junk pics for e-bay, both of these setups are overkill. For museum pieces or jewlery you will need even more than the flashes; relfectors, dark field setups, etc.
BTY, in previous 180mm vs 100mm macro post, unless subject is moving critter (where wkg dist MATTERS) the 100 does equally fine. If you are shooting plants, you need to make or buy a PLAMP or equal. Stopping the plant from blowing is more impt than wkg dist.