Macro Lens

[dougie66]

Hi All, looking for advice. I'm looking to buy a Macro lens for my eos-350D. I'm a little confused as to the focal length. I know the most common one's are the 60mm and 100mm. Apart from the obvious lol, what is the difference in these two? Is there a ratio difference or does it mean the 60mm can get closer than the 100mm to the subject?
Cheers

[dougie66]

Re: Macro Lens

Thanks for the advice folks.

[Dave]

Re: Macro Lens

Both are true 1:1 macro lenses.

At 1:1 the 60mm has a Minimum Focusing Distance (MFD) of 200mm and a Minimum Working Distance (MWD) of 90mm

At 1:1 the 100mm has an MFD of 300mm and an MWD of 150mm

There is a good comparison here which includes sample photos with the two lenses side by side showing the difference in Depth of Focus at the same aperture with the same subject.

MFD is the minimum distance from the focal plane to the subject
MWD is the minimum distance from the front of the lens (without the lens hood in place) to the subject.

[dougie66]

Re: Macro Lens

Thanks for that Dave, I appreciate that. Probably looking at the 60mm for best distance.
Cheers

[Bawbee]

Re: Macro Lens

Dougie,

Be aware that if you upgrade to a FF body you will not be able to use the 60mm as it is, I believe, an EF-S series lens.

A new EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS lens has recently been announced (Drool) and you may be able to pick up an 'older' version at a cheaper price very soon - being in Jockland that should appeal

[DCINNC]

Re: Macro Lens

If you are shooting a maoving subject i.e spiders/butterflies/bugs then get a longer focal length i.e 100 or 180 if it doesnt move then the 60mm will do

Dave

[chrisforshaw]

Re: Macro Lens

What about the Tamron 90mm. I've used it and it's amazingly sharp

[DavidHollick]

Re: Macro Lens

The Tamron 90mm is a great lens and gets great reviews.

Works well on my 40D

Dave