Macro Accessories

Hi id like to know how to increase my macro shot potential with my tamron 17-50 lens.

With the choices between extension tubes / filters / teleconvertors and what not, what would be the best choice for a start. Secondly, would i be ok by using a no-name brand extension or macro accessory of ebay (hong kong) as i know the original canons can run pricey.

thanks!

For a start, try a set of Kenko extension tubes...a tripod is also recommended.

Beware of some el-cheapo extension tubes. With some of the cheapest eBay tubes, you cannot stop down the lens when shooting and can only shoot it at the widest setting which doesn't do well at all for macro shooting.

The Tamron provides a close-up ratio of 1:4.5 which will cover an area 2.65" x 4.05" which is fairly good for many close-up images.

However, if you wanted to get closer to achieve a larger image ratio with your lens, you basically have four choices:

1. Use an extension tube or a set of EF extension tubes. Canon and Kenko are both good.

2. Use a close-up lens or adapter which screws onto the filter threads of your lens. I don't know if there is a 67mm Canon 500D produced but, you might fins a third party close-up lens. This degrades the image somewhat but is can be acceptable.

3. Use a reversing ring and a manual lens reversed on your camera

http://haodascreen.com​/reversing.aspx

4. Use a manual lens reversed attached to the front of your present lens. Note, this specific ring is for a 58mm lens - you need one for 67mm to use on your Tamron.

http://cgi.ebay.com …ZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcm​dZViewItem

The above two choices are kind of a pain to use.

Make sure that any type adapter you use is for an EF lens not for an FD lens.

HOWEVER: A macro lens is a much-much better way to go. Even the Phoenix 100mm f/3.5 Macro which, at between $100 and $125, will cost less than a set of good extension tubes provides very good image quality.

Here is a review from the Nikon forum (there are EF mount lenses available also)
http://www.nikonians.o​rg …les/phoenix/100​f35-1.html

FINAL IDEA: Haunt eBay and other forums for the 90mm Tamron f/2.8 Macro SP AF lens. This is a discontinued lens but provides great image quality. It can achieve a ratio of 1:1 and is often available at a sub-$150 price (depending on your luck - I got mine for under $125 including shipping). Note: this is NOT the 90mm f/2.5 Tamron Adaptall macro lens.