Macro for Sony Alpha

External Since: Nov 27, 2006 Posts: 6

Hi,

Can anybody recommend a good Macro lens for the Sony Alpha (i.e, a
Minolta fitting). I have been looking around and I am starting to get
confused on what is out there, and the differences beteen a dedicated
Macro and a standard Zoon (28-80 say) with Macro facilities.

I have been looking at the Sigma F2.8 Macro EX DG lens, and it seems
about right, but some people have stered me away from this saying its
ok standard lens, but not so good as a macro.

Also, dont want to pay the earth, and I have a good standard lens.
Looking for something that really helps with the Macro shots

Thanks in advance.

External Since: Jul 13, 2006 Posts: 231

"JaffaB" <jaffa_brown RemoveThis @yahoo.co.uk> wrote in message
news:1164633570.965421.283520@l39g2000cwd.googlegroups.com...
> Hi,
>
> Can anybody recommend a good Macro lens for the Sony Alpha (i.e, a
> Minolta fitting). I have been looking around and I am starting to get
> confused on what is out there, and the differences beteen a dedicated
> Macro and a standard Zoon (28-80 say) with Macro facilities.
>
>

Don't confuse a true macro with a zoom lens that is purported to have a
macro function.

True macros are computed to offer optimal resolution at close range, as
opposed to virtually all other lenses that are optimized for infinity. True
macros focus much closer than non-macro lenses do. True macro lenses
feature flat-field coverage with virtually no rectilinear distortion.
Straight lines stay straight, they don't bow in or out. True macro lenses
typically are bright right out to the corners, rather than have the light
falloff that is common on other lenses.

Unfortunately, true macro lenses cost more money. One way to save might be
to purchase a used macro lens, especially if you won't be using it as a
workhorse lens. There may the ability to use lenses of other mounts, with
an appropriate adapter.

You can explore using your normal lens, with screw-on close-up lenses. You
can also get a lens reversing ring for use with a normal lens. And there
are extension tubes or bellows units that will let you use a normal lens for
close-up work, BUT these solutions are all compromises. If you want true
macro characteristics, such as I listed above, there is really no substitute
for a true macro lens. If a real macro lens is within your budget you will
not regret buying the real thing. You must decide the question of cost
versus functionality based on your own unique requirements.