Which Macro Lens?

I'm thinking about picking up a macro lens to fool around with on my 40D.

Considering Canon 60/2.8 and 100/2.8, as well as Tamron 60/2.0.

I have a 50/1.8 and an 85/1.8. I kind of like the idea of a 60mm macro to maybe replace the nifty 50 altogether, or at least give me another portrait option vs the 85, but the 100mm seems to be the best choice for all around entry level macro lens.

Any thoughts? Any others worth considering? I'm not planning to go macro-crazy or anything, weird shots around the house and in the backyard mostly.

Thanks.

The 60 is a terrific lens in every respect, and a very useful focal length on a crop camera. I love mine; like you, I use it for backyard-type macro shots and it does a stellar job.

I just picked up the 60 and got the 100 a month ago. both are fine lenses, but I have not really used them much. but the flowers are starting to pop up and I'll be using them more soon. I bought them both used here on the for sale forum. Try the 100 first.

mpix345 wrote in post #12025286
I'm thinking about picking up a macro lens to fool around with on my 40D.

Considering Canon 60/2.8 and 100/2.8, as well as Tamron 60/2.0.

I have a 50/1.8 and an 85/1.8. I kind of like the idea of a 60mm macro to maybe replace the nifty 50 altogether, or at least give me another portrait option vs the 85, but the 100mm seems to be the best choice for all around entry level macro lens.

Any thoughts? Any others worth considering? I'm not planning to go macro-crazy or anything, weird shots around the house and in the backyard mostly.

Thanks.

Given that you already have a 50 and 85 I would not get the 60. Getting something smack in the middle of two lenses you already own doesn't add anything valuable but macro capability.

I would go with either the 100 or the Sigma 150mm. (or you could buy my 180mm Tamron. )

The 100 would extend the range of your lens collection giving you more range and adding macro. The 150 would do the same, and do so more decisively, giving you much more reach when you need it, which is not a bad thing.

I've decided to go for the 60mm. Now I have to decide between a used Canon/2.8 for maybe $325 and a new Tamron/2.0 for $400 (after rebate). Given how much I hate rebates I'll probably go with the Canon, though faster is always better, right?

I will sell my 50/1.8 if this lens works out, so the 60mm shouldn't end up crammed between the 85 and 50.

Any thoughts on Canon vs Tamron 60s?

Thanks.

mpix345 wrote in post #12033109
I've decided to go for the 60mm. Now I have to decide between a used Canon/2.8 for maybe $325 and a new Tamron/2.0 for $400 (after rebate). Given how much I hate rebates I'll probably go with the Canon, though faster is always better, right?

I will sell my 50/1.8 if this lens works out, so the 60mm shouldn't end up crammed between the 85 and 50.

Any thoughts on Canon vs Tamron 60s?

Thanks.

Get the Canon for the USM and slightly smaller. Tamron has a micro motor.

Sigma 150/2.8.

davidnholtjr wrote in post #12033294
Get the Canon for the USM and slightly smaller. Tamron has a micro motor.

Yeah, I definitely prefer the quieter USM.

gasrocks wrote in post #12033299
Sigma 150/2.8.

Considered it, but I am staying low budget on this for now, realizing that my definition of low budget is different than yours gasrocks.

Get the Canon 100mm f2.8

By the time you add the cost of the hood and collar (must have items to me) to the EF 100/2.8, the Sigma 150/2.8 is cheaper.

I can't seem to get the 60mm efs off the camera. It's really sharp. I started with the 17-85 and thought it was a good walk-around. But the results I have been getting with the 60mm, I have not taken it off in about 2 months.

100mm canon macro you cant go wrong although the tamron gets great reviews.

gasrocks wrote in post #12033299
Sigma 150/2.8.

+1 Definitely ^^^^ whenever you have the funds in the future.

http://www.slrgear.com …ct.php/product/​180/cat/30

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …1_150mm_f_2_8_E​X_APO.html

Not to mention the soon to be released above Sigma with OS below :

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …1_150mm_f_2_8_E​X_APO.html

If the above is too expensive then the below Tamron 90mm f2.8 is another really nice alternative plus has a rebate now:

http://www.slrgear.com …uct.php/product​/51/cat/22

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …700_SP_90mm_f_2​_8_Di.html


Regards,

My EF-s 60mm is my most used lens. I almost never take it off. I picked up a cheap hood from ebay and it mounts and works just perfect.
...Terry

Figured I'd close the loop on this thread. I finally went with the Canon 60mm/2.8. Seems very nice so far, just shooting some macros around the house and quick portaits. I will get outside with it as soon as Spring decides to settle in here in the northeast. Based on my initial shots of stuff like my cell phone and and keyboard I am not sure I'll be getting any of the crazy up close bug shots that are so prevalent here, but I guess you need more than one modest macro lens to start pulling those off...

Thanks everyone for the discussion on this.