Which Macro lense

I've just been reading that i will need a ring flash to get the best macro images with my 40D. I dont have the funds to buy a ring flash and Im obviously going to get sharper images with one but cant i afford one just yet. Should i hold out on the Macro lense until i have enough funds or can i still get decent shoots without one for the time being?

Ebay bid ends soon so i just want to mke sure before i buy it.

They're nice to have but you do not HAVE to have it. You'll be able to get great shots with or without the ring flash...or any flash.

You may also want to take a look at the Tokina 100 2.8 macro. I am thinking of this lens myself. I did have a Canon 100 macro, and yes, the AF was fast and quiet, but it would occasionally hunt like CRAZY in light that should have been adequate. Others have mentioned this also. It was, however, razor sharp.

Sigma 105 is a great lens. Sure, it doesn't have the perks like USM or internal focusing, but it's built like a tank, and anything that has to do with focusing is useless when shooting bugs anyway - you just reel it out to 1:1 and move the camera to focus. It is also on average at least 30% cheaper than the Canon.

I didn't know how confusing it was going be to buy a Macro lense.

By the sounds of it and the reviews ive read, they both sound good enough. I've now jumped to the sigma. I can get one from 47st photo in New York for £300. I don't know how internal focus works or what USM is, ive got a lot of reading to do.

As long as i can get good portrait and bug shots with the sigma, considering my budget i'll go for that instead. That used Canon went to £350 on ebay, id rather buy a new one, but then theres another that the seller has had for 5 years but is currently at £200

Anyone know 47st photos and how reliable they are?

gasrocks wrote in post #8167768
But I thought the OP expressed a budget that is lower than either the Canon 100 or Sigma 150, used or new.

Sadly, most people don't pay attention OP's request when they comment.

I own the Sigma 105 and its an amazing lens for the money. It doesn't focus as fast as the Canon, but its a wonderful lens.....


Sigma 105....

I ended up going for the Sigma. Should be here in a couple of days