Reverse Macro

I'm wondering if someone can explain about reverse macro adaptor. I've read it's best on 55mm manual only lenses... I'm wondering about my 55mm lens that has both auto and manual. Also, if anyone can explain the tech reasons behind how this works..

Thanks

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Karlyh, I had never heard of this so I "googled" it and came up with several explanations Reverse-Lens Macro Photography [tutorial] « StephenElliot.com

The link above talks about the reverse macro method. You're basically taking a lens like your 55mm and putting it on backwards so you can get close-up shots. My guess is that if you use an adapter (and I couldn't find one for the nikon) you lose all automatic camera functions because the lens contacts are now on the "outside" instead on making contact with the camera. And if you use this method, you would have to definitely set your lens to manual.

I think if the adapter is cheap enough ($20 as opposed to $500 for a Nikkor macro lens) it might be worth a try if you want to try macro photography. Actually, if you just take the lens off your camera and hold it backwards to the camera, see how close you can get to the subject and if you like the rsults.

I saw someone doing this on another forum with some outstanding results. Of course you're not going to get autofocus and aperture will be a manual guess, but it's worth a shot if you just want to experiment and not do any macro stuff long term.

jdeg.... are you talking of what Helene suggested or of the adapter itself? I think you mean with the adaptor... Yeah, I seen some photos of using this as well... and it seems reasonable enough price wise to consider giving it a try.

what I was curious about if my 55mm lens has both auto and manual on it.... it would still work while set to manual, correct? And also... is this suppose to be a substitute of a macro lens? or is it a way of getting another 'kind' of effect? Because I'm reasonably happy with the macro lenses I have.....but, with not experiencing the difference it may be something I'm missing out on. The answers may be on the link you've provided Helene.. I'll check it out. thanks!!

I'm talking about the lens auto functions when mounted using the adapter. From what I know all the adapter does is allow you to mount the lens to the camera backwards. It doesn't do anything as far as transferring the contacts on the lens to the camera mount. Thus you lose autofocus and aperture.

I would think this is more of a substitute or cheaper alternative if you don't already have macro lenses.

Ohhhh got it! Seems a strange thing to do with your lens!..lol Thanks jdeg!

Originally Posted by karlyh

strange thing to do with your lens!

I love it! . . . gave me an idea for a new thread (reworded a little so we don't get into "hot water")