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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Favorite Macro or Tele Lens for Under $200?
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Showing posts 1 - 13 of 13, (reverse)
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 03/30/2006 06:48:57 PM · #1
Just wondering...I need a good macro or telephoto lens (preferably macro) for under $200.

Because I'm not having much luck.
 03/30/2006 07:28:07 PM · #2
A true, dedicated macro lens will cost more than that, but there are other options. I see that you have the Canon 50/1.8II. You could pick up a set of extension tubes, that would give you great macro capability with the 50mm lens. There's also the Canon 250D "diopter" which is around $70 in the size that I believe fits the 50/1.8 (52mm?) which would be the least expensive option of all, and would get you great results. BTW, don't go with the really cheap 3rd-party versions of the "diopter" type lenses, there is a big difference in optical quality.
 03/31/2006 01:21:44 PM · #3
Would the 500D be better, or worse than the 250D when it comes to that? I saw the 500D one like that when I was looking around at macro filters last night.
 03/31/2006 02:35:04 PM · #4
i dunno if this would help.. but a photography mag here rates the Tamron 70-300mm won thru a whole list of other contenders of telephoto lens. Its also got a macro function which could focus up to at 90cm (cant recall the exact distance though). Well I'm still waiting for my unit. :)
 03/31/2006 09:35:32 PM · #5
If you're looking for a decent telephoto or macro lens under $200, then you're probably looking second hand. Try eBay, reputable camera shops, camera markets etc., and don't forget to do your research first.

I've picked up a couple of good lenses on eBay, but you do need to take care.
03/31/2006 09:36:44 PM · #6
Try the Panasonic FZ30! You won't believe it!
 03/31/2006 09:38:29 PM · #7
For the Money-- the Sigma 70-300 Macro sounds about perfect for you-- wasnt someone selling one just a few days agao?

Message edited by author 2006-03-31 21:39:07.
 03/31/2006 09:40:18 PM · #8
I concur with Kirbic about the extension tubes. I have the 50mm and my kit lens and I just reverse it ;) SOmetimes I add the extension tubes to the 50mm or there are times when I use the extension tubes in addition to the reverse technique for ultra macros ;) Just make sure you have enough lighting that is ;)
 03/31/2006 09:41:31 PM · #9
This Link-- Dont know if its sold yet--

Sigma for sale.
 03/31/2006 11:35:39 PM · #10
OK, the sigma 50mm f2.8 macro lenses is actually $234.95 Here at Sigma4less.com (I have bought stuff from them and they deliver).

The lense gets a ver good reviews and ratings over at Fred Miranda

So, I would recommend waiting until you get the extra $$$ to pay $250 for this lense. It is an excellent, high quality lense that anyone would be happy with in thier lense bag.

Another plus, it is sharp for portraits also:)

Possible you can find it used for around $200, but I have not looked at all. I own the Sigma 105mm f2.8, which is the longer version of the same lense, and I am extremely pleased with it.

Good luck in your shopping.

03/31/2006 11:46:27 PM · #11
Originally posted by sammigurl:
Would the 500D be better, or worse than the 250D when it comes to that? I saw the 500D one like that when I was looking around at macro filters last night.


The 500D is for longer lens. I don't think it would work on a 50mm. It works by allowing closer focusing distance. I suspect that the 500D on 50mm lens would left no working distance at all. I have a 500D that I use on a 80-200mm lens. It's really great. If the 250D is as good as the 500D, it's a great option for macro. I have some macro shot in my portfolio done with the 500D. There are cheaper single element close up filter out there, but the 250D and 500D are high optical quality lens.

04/01/2006 01:03:29 AM · #12
My favorite new/used shop is KEH they have a Used Tokina 100mm 2.8 macro over there right now for 172.00

Personally I'm having a lot of fun with my Vivitar 100mm 3.5 Macro that I gave 60 bucks for.

Andy

ED: They have some used Tammy/Sigma 70-300's over there as well

Message edited by author 2006-04-01 01:12:48.
 04/01/2006 08:40:43 AM · #13
You can look over this site for information. There are a couple lenses down around $200. (Scroll down a bit for a chart of the lenses he reviews.)

Message edited by author 2006-04-01 08:41:40.
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