Thoughts on micro lenses, specially the Nikon 60mm f/2.8G

I was thinking of getting the AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED for some product photography - specifically cell phones. I've spotted this lens in other's similar work.

Here are some pics with my current setup: Cell Phone Reviews (the standard 18-55mm with d5000)

Do you think the 60mm micro could improve on these pics? Would the 85 or 105mm be too much since cell phones aren't that small.

I looooove my Tokina macro lens...although I tend to use my 18-105 lens with extension tubes alot more.

Which extension tubes do you use with your 18-105. I have the same set up and would like to try my hand at some macro but have to stand back some and don't like that. What tubes do you recommend?
Mark

I tried out both the Nikkor 105 and 60 and ended up going with the 60 mm for a macro lens. It's pretty versatile and sharp (and not as heavey!). The 105 seemed to be somewhat "temperamental" in terms of autofocus.

I like the 85 macro lens myself. Not too heavy, sharp as a tack images, great for closeup, too, and the price is very reasonable.

I use Kenko extension tubes...I bought a kit with three in it....36mm,20mm,and12mm...I am sure there are some better ones out there, but these were in my price range ( bought them for $250.00 ). I know what you mean about having to stand back..I like to get up close and personal with nature..LOL. I am still playing with them..need some more practice, but getting the hang of it
Carolyn

I have the AF-S 60mm f2.8G and have used it to shoot probably 95% of the product shots for Naneu Bags . I highly recommend the lens!



I should add that I did NOT shoot every image on the Naneu web site; probably 98%, and of those, 95% were shot using the 60mm on a D300. Also, this is NOT an endorsement of the Naneu brand, they were merely a client.

I attended a Tamron sponsored macro event a couple years ago and was able to use the Tamron 90mm macro. It totally rocks. One thing to consider is that with the 60mm lens you need to get closer to the subject than with a 90 or 105. A fast lens (f2.8) isn't such a big issue as you want a smaller aperture to control depth of field. A macro lens is probably next on my list and personally I'd probably go with the Nikon 85mm micro or the Tamron 90mm.

If you are only going to do occasional macro work, you might want to consider the Canon 500D close-up filter. I've seen some amazing results with it.

I have heard that you lose the ability to auto focus with the extension tubes. Do the Kenko tubes allow you to do that with Nikon lenses?
Mark

No..the kenko tubes do not allow you to use auto focus I very RARELY use auto focus when I shoot, so that was not a concern for me I like to be constantly in control of all my settings..that is what I enjoy the most about taking pictures...
Carolyn

I use auto focus most of the time. I seem to have trouble getting as clear a focus on my own. I may try use manual for a bit and see how I do before I invest in the extension tubes. It may just take some practice.

well you know what they say...practice makes perfect..LOL..I still have alot of practicing to do myself..but enjoying every minute of it! I use a tripod 95% of the time..so that helps
Carolyn

Here's a couple 60 2.8 shots from my gallery.
Just regular old flowers, but...the 60 2.8 in action.
f5 and f8, 1/100, iso 100, handheld, manual focus.

Very sharp, I have a friend with this lens and she loves it, I can see why.

For longer shooting distances from the subject the Sigma 150 f/2.8 rocks! I've used it for a year or so and love it.
BART ALDRICH PHOTOGRAPHY

goz63 said:

I have heard that you lose the ability to auto focus with the extension tubes. Do the Kenko tubes allow you to do that with Nikon lenses?
Mark

Click to expand...

You can auto focus when using Kenko Extension tubes.
Kenko Auto Extension Tube Set DG for Nikon Lens AEXTUBEDGN - B&H

I have this lens and Im very happy with its performance.

f you don't want to go for the expensive Nikon 60mm f/2.8, a cheaper but a very reasonable alternative is the Sigma 50mm f2.8 macro, which I have been using for over an year now. The photos that I have posted on the macro shots in critique forum have been taken with that lens. A longer focal length macro lens has its advantages, but becomes more expensive. The Sigma lens, I found quite useful for objects like flowers, where you can go in close and with a tripod, it yields good results. One of my photos taken with this lens is attached to this post

One more photo taken with the Sigma 50mm f2.8 macro lens