Nikon D80

[RichNKatHolly]

OK, I'm still fairly new to digi SLR photography having received the D80 for christmas. I would like a macro lens and am not sure how to go about picking which one would be best.

I'd like to take photos of flowers, little ladybugs on the grass, etc. I also belong to a makeup board and would like to be able to photograph an eye to capture shadow application.

Can you help me pick one? I found these two on Overstock.com and the prices seem pretty good. I'd appreciate any input! Thanks so much (again).

Sigma 70-300mm F/4-5.6 DG Macro Lens for Nikon - $135.99
Sigma 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DG Macro Wide Angle-Telephoto Lens - $276.99

 

[RichNKatHolly]

Oh boy - just checked out this one:

Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G - about $500+

I really need a less expensive hobby!

 

[YEKCIM]

I have a Sigma 150mm f/2.8 macro and like it a lot. It is a true 1:1 macro lens, which I doubt the two zooms you listed are. They are most likely "close focus", not true macro lenses. I also hear good things about the Tamron 90mm f/2.8, which can be had for around $375 after MIR. It is a true 1:1 macro.

~Ed

 

[RichNKatHolly]

Thank you! I had a feeling they were probably sub-par and I don't understand all the "jargon" being a newbie and all.

I will check out your two recommendations.

 

[Chikabowa]

I love the 60mm f2.8 Macro. That's what I have. A lot of true Macro photographers don't like it though because you have to get too close to your subject and they prefer the 105mm f2.8. For the application of what I need a macro lens, the 60mm suffices perfectly and I love it. Plus I preferred the price on it since it really is a speciality lens for me.

 

[Gdad]

There is also a non-vr AF 105/f2.8 Micro which is nice- it does 1:1 without an extension ring. About $450 in EX condition from KEH- I see them on Ebay for under $300 all the time. For bugs and small critters 105mm is probably as short as I would go. Much smaller and less expensive than the 105vr or the Sigma 150. I had one of these for a while (and the other two)- it's a nice lens and good value. It does tend to focus hunt when used as a short telephoto- but they all do.

http://www.keh.com/OnLineStore/Prod...&CC=&CCC=&BCL=&GBC=&GCC=&KW=nikon 105mm micro

 

[RichNKatHolly]

Thanks all! You are certainly narrowing my choices.

 

[pisco]

I recently picked up the Tamron 90 2.8 for doing close up jewelry shots and portraits and am loving it.

 

[YesDear]

I second Susan's post. I have the 60mm 2.8. Why? Because I did not want to spend the extra money on the 105. Both are very good lens. Pick your poison! I agree with Jeff's comment about being closer but $$$ talks!

 

[handicap18]

You can find an older used Tamron 90mm f/2.5 MACRO at keh.com for around $250. I got an older used Tamron f/2.8 MACRO from them and it is in perfect condition AFAIK for $290 a few years ago.

 

[We-Luv-Disney]

I have the Sigma 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 APO DG Macro for my canon 40D, it retails for $209 @ B and H. It has a macro switch that enables you to shoot macro between the 200 - 300mm range. It does well at macro and is a decent telephoto lens as well. I actually shot wishes this weekend using this lens from the ferry boat landing at the ticket and transportation center. I was very happy with the results. Heres a sample of how close this lens can get you.

image settings
Focal Length 300 mm
Exposure Time 1/2500 sec
Aperture f/8
ISO Equivalent 800
If you want a cheap macro lens I would defenetl take a look at this sigma http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/549304-REG/Sigma_5A8306_70_300mm_f_4_5_6_APO_DG.html

 

[saturndb]

I have the Sigma 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 APO DG Macro for my canon 40D, it retails for $209 @ B and H. It has a macro switch that enables you to shoot macro between the 200 - 300mm range. It does well at macro and is a decent telephoto lens as well. I actually shot wishes this weekend using this lens from the ferry boat landing at the ticket and transportation center. I was very happy with the results. Heres a sample of how close this lens can get you.

image settings
Focal Length 300 mm
Exposure Time 1/2500 sec
Aperture f/8
ISO Equivalent 800
If you want a cheap macro lens I would defenetl take a look at this sigma http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/549304-REG/Sigma_5A8306_70_300mm_f_4_5_6_APO_DG.html

Nice shot!

 

[RichNKatHolly]

Thanks so much for all the advice! And that bug shot is totally awesome - WOW! I really need to spend more time on this hobby.

Anyway, I have to wait a week to actually purchase so I have time to research. Dropped my cell phone into a cup of water at work and needed to buy a new one today out of my fun money. I figures.

 

[saturndb]

I have a brand new Nikon D80 Magic Latern Guide Book if someone who owns this camera wants it. Just send me a PM and it is yours. If you could cover shipping cost (2.00) that would be appreciated.

Dave

 

[Quicklabs]

Hi Dave:
Just pm'ed ya!
Laura

 

[saturndb]

Enjoy the book Laura

Dave

 

[Quicklabs]

Thanks, Dave! Hey everyone! I'm finally going to learn how to use my camera!

 

[Evad]

Congrats Laura!! You beat me do it........

 

[Morganw42]

Ok, considering that I don't shoot portraits often and that from everything that I've read so far says that it won't increase my burst rate is there any reason to buy a battery grip and a second battery for my Nikon D80? My NAS side keeps needling me to get one because they look cool but my common sense side says to just buy the second battery and swap it out as needed...

 

[Quicklabs]

I have a second battery for my D80 and that has worked well from a power standpoint. I wouldn't need one just to hold the second battery. However, I tend to shoot quite a few portrait orientation shots and often wonder if the grip would help, well, with a better grip.