Which combo is better for macro?

1. 50mm 1.8 with 52mm extension tubes

2. 18-55mm ef-s with IS?

Both give about 1:1 but, is it better to have the f1.8 or the IS? Please leave a note as to why you feel the way you do.

Thanks

Alan

Personally, I wouldn't try either as macro lenses really do work better.

But, if that's all the choice you have, then it might be a toss-up. There are very few if any, macro lenses with IS, so that might provide a clue.

When shooting true macro or even closeup, the dof is so small that at f/3.5 the dof is negligible, let alone at f/1.8 (unless you focus stack, for which a tripod is almost essential).

My personal choice is to use a good tripod for closeup and macro work, the reasons being that even the smallest camera movement will:

1. screw up the framing

2. screw up the dof and/or focus.

Because of this, IS becomes redundant (read usless). In fact with my 100 macro I turn AF off too.


PS: I didn't answer the poll because although I believe in democracy, voting and all that, it really doesn't apply to photography, and it seldoms provides any useful information.

If those are your only choices I'd go with the 50 1.8 as large apertures and a prime lens will be better. I have an old pentax 50mm f1.7 lens that I use with tubes and the results are very pleasing. I also use my 430ex to throw light on the subject and get better shutter speeds.

The prime will probably be a bit better. IS or large apertures are both useless for macro work - you'll be at at least f/11 90%+ of the time. If you haven't got a flash prepare for lots of frustration - not trying to put you off, it's just that macro requires small apertures and lots of light generally, so you'll want a flash and off-shoe cord.

Thanks for all the info. I tried both and the 1.8 gives better results. I just can not afford a macro lens so I have to learn to use what I have. For flash (I know its not optimal but, it works) I built a long rectangular tube with a 45 degree angle at the end and fit it over the flash. Puts light over entire area I am shooting. Not the greatest but, works for me.

I second the mention of a good tripod. It is nearly manditory. Good luck, Dennis