Lens recommendation for shooting spark plugs

[JustinCesler]

I have a project coming up that will require me to shoot spark plugs (the kind that are in your car). I need to be a detailed as possible and want to be able to capture the entire plug in focus.

Basically, I will be doing this:

http://www.aa1car.com/library/reading_spark_plugs.jpg

But much, much larger and closer. Like this, but even closer still.

http://www.aa1car.com/library/fouled_sparkplug.jpg

Would the 100L be good or should I look into the 60? I usually (everyday, fulltime) shoot cars, so this is my first time doing anything Macro. Any help would be excellent.

[JustinCesler]

I should mention, this is on a 40D and I have as many lights as needed along with an excellent tripod.

[scubthebub]

any macro lens would work fine. I've only use the 100 macro for a 2 week period, but i loved it (and it's half the price of the 100L)

[John_B]

JustinCesler,
Just like scubthebub said: any macro lens would work fine. As both the 100L and the 60 f/2.8 will give the same magnification which should be more then enough for your spark plug photos :)

[JustinCesler]

Awesome, I will go ahead and get one of them ASAP!

[Warl0rd]

yep, both will produce exactly the same magnification, the main difference will be the distance between the lens and the spark, but it won't mater much to you I guess.

[JustinCesler]

Yeah, I can be as close or as far as needed, so that is a plus.

Would you guys recommend a focusing rail? Or will these be easy enough to dial in with some movement of the plug/tripod?

[Warl0rd]

just place the camera on a tripod set the lens to MF at 1:1 and place the spark on a table and move it carefully until you have it where you want it :)

[Jill-of-all-Trades]

That is one messed up spark plug!

[LEDZEPPALAN]

That is one messed up spark plug!thats pre-detenation and combind with weak mixture, your cat converter is shot as well:lol: