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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Clovishound" data-source="post: 821631" data-attributes="member: 50197">I shoot most of my macro with a flash. It solves the issues with needing a tripod, using low ISOs, and small apertures. I can shoot handheld without worrying about camera shake or subject movement. I use the Godox 685. It runs around $130. They have a smaller, less powerful unit for well under $100. You'll need a diffuser. They run from free (making one from materials around the house) to $10-$15 for some of the popular pop out fabric or small softbox. Some of the nicer ones are over $100, but IMO are not exponentially better.FYI, I normally use manual focus. That isn't a requirement, but I find using AF too frustrating for higher magnification work. Yes, I get a LOT of out of focus shots, but my understanding is that is par for the course with insect macro work. Maybe the Z8 will do better at AF, but when you are working at near 1:1 the least little swaying motion will radically change the focus, and most AF systems cannot handle that. I do use focus peaking to assist in manual focus. FYI I normally preset the focus and then use back and forth movement of the camera to fine tune focus.This is an image made with the $10 pop out fabric that fits over the lens barrel.[ATTACH=full]407605[/ATTACH]And here's one taken with my homemade model similar to something like the AK that runs over $100. IMO, it has softer, more even light and is an upgrade from the popup. However, the inexpensive model does a great job and is very convenient to store, deploy, and then put back up. It can be folded into a very small package, or stored extended, but flat (only a few sheets of paper thick).[ATTACH=full]407601[/ATTACH]</blockquote>

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