 Bruce Penix |
Macro Lens: What to Buy? I am interested in buying a macro lens. I am looking at a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 lens. What I want to know is the Promaster lens of the same specs. Is it just as good as the Canon? I just don't want to be buying a name, if I can get the same lens for less with the same quality. Thank you.
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Jon Close |
The Promaster is a good value, but does not have the same specs as the Canon. The Promaster 100 f/3.5 Macro is 2/3 stop smaller maximum aperture and cheaper build quality. It will focus only to 1:2 (but includes life-size adapter for 1:1), where the Canon will focus to 1:1 without any adapters. Its front barrel extends with close focus, but the Canon has internal focus. The Promaster uses a conventional geared AF motor, where the Canon uses ring-USM and has nicely damped full-time manual focus. Still and all, the Promaster lens is a good economical choice if the budget does not allow for the Canon (or Sigma or Tamron) macro lenses. It reportedly is very sharp.
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John G. Clifford Jr |
If you want a lens that has AF capabilities, then the Sigma 105mm is the best value in this focal length. It will be as sharp as the Canon and cost hundreds less. If you want a lens that will be the equal of the Canon or Sigma, and are willing to focus manually and handle all aspects of exposure, then pick up an M42-to-EOS adapter for your camera, and then pick up a Pentax SMC Takumar 105mm or 135mm off of eBay. Get a set of extension tubes also. You will have a package that will not be surpassed, quality-wise, by anything from Canon today, at about 25% of the cost, and it will do everything the Canon lens will do and more.
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Peter K. Burian |
Bruce: I have also tested the new Tokina 100mm Macro lens. Superb!! Tokina 100mm f/2.8 AT-X M100 AF Pro D Macro Autofocus Lens for Canon EOS$370. www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=1&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=RootPage.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t&shs=AT-X+100+PRO+D+&image.x=7&image.y=5 Regards, Peter Burian, Instructor
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