Getting started - what do I need?

I'm interested in getting into some macro photography. I've seen a lot of great stuff from all of you and want to give it a shot. What equipment should I look at getting in addition to what I already have?

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I'm new to this as well and have basically copied off the experts I've seen here. I just purchased a sigma 105 ex.

other nice things to have might be extension tubes, a flash, and a focusing rail for the tripod.

canon also makes a 5x macro lens..Canon MPE-65

but this is all coming from a newbie as well. I'll let the experts chime in

hi there, look for a macro lens around 100mm, canon,sigma & tamron all very good, you can use your 550ex flash gun on a straight bracket, a small 19mm ball head will allow flash angle to be altered, just need to make a diffuser to soften the light.
adding kenko extension tubes will increase mag to just over x2..

phil

beachbum2277,
There are many ways to get good macro photos.
First how much $$$ do you want to spend?
Second what type of macro subjects will be primary?
Third how big (or small) are your subjects?

One lower cost start out possibility is just a set of Kenko extension tubes which will work well and give you 1:1 and more with your 50mm lens and will also work with your 17-40L and 24-105L lenses. However if you go this route I strongly suggest an off-shoe extension cord for your flash.

A better and more usable (in my opinion and my recommendation) option is to just get a macro lens which will work better and give more room between you and your subject. The Canon 100mm f/2.8 is like L quality and is an excellent 100mm standard telephoto also If combined with the set of Kenko extension tubes you can get true 2:1 (basically doubles the magnification).

If you want more magnification, the best bet is the Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x lens. It gives great results with high magnifications. But it really needs an external flash with off shoe cord at the minimum and has a higher cost with less working room between lens and subject. It is not known for its ease or multi use.

These are only suggestions, good luck on your choice