I know what a macro lens is - but I have a question about it. What is the difference in a 100mm macro lens and a 100mm lens? Is there a difference? I have an 85mm 1.8 lens - is this equivalent to a macro lens? The reason I'm asking is for ring shots at weddings. I don't have a "Macro" lens, but I do have a 28-105. I don't understand if there is a difference in a 100mm macro, or what I can do with a 28-105 (I get the depth of field/ f/stop stuff - I'm only talking focus on the rings). Not sure I am even wording this right, but some of you guys are so smart, you even understand MY questions!! Thanks for any help!
Comments
With a "normal" lens closest distance where you are able to focus may be a feet or two or even more depending on the lens.
(Plus of course the 1:1 ratio)
You cannot take the below photo with a 100 f2.8 non-macro lens:
I would never recommend buying a non-macro 100 f2.8.
rc
The dof on a macro is such that rings shots can actually be shot at f8 or more just to get the entire diamond in focus. Try at 2.8 and youll probably just get one of the crisp edges of the diamond in focus. Vr is a good thing to have on a macro esp for weddings. A 105mm f2.8 (non macro) refers to only the focal length. Like having a 70/200 zoomed to 105mm. Hope that helps some what.
The 105mm micro vr nikon is regarded as one of the best around.
You got it correct! I have the 60mm and 105mm Micro lenses. That 105 is amazing, and I have the Nikon R1 Kit to go along with it. Can't beat the combination...ANYWHERE! The R1 Kit comes with adapters to attach to practically any lens...
In other words, if you photograph something, like a penny. The actual penny will be the same size as on the 35mm piece of film (or FF sensor).
That's true macro.
But many macro lenses (especially older designs), offered 1/2 life-size.
24-70mm lenses or such that offer a macro mode, can't do this. It just means they focus really, really close. That's useful too.
Both the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 VR macro, and the Canon 100mm f/2.8 IS macro are superb lenses. Top notch.