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Reversing ring V Extension tubes?

  • 14-08-2011 3:54pm
    #1
    Finnt
    Closed Accounts Posts: 594 ✭✭✭


    Hi all,
    I'm new to photography but am interested in getting into macro, but before I splash out on a lens I am going to buy either an extension tube set or a reversing ring.
    I was just wondering which was better and why?
    Apologies if this is a silly question
    Thanks

    I should say I know what the physical difference is but in regards to quality ect


Comments

  • #2
    ThOnda
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,699 ✭✭✭ThOnda


    The reverse ring is kind of cheaper. But you are in danger of damaging the inner lens and it does not have coating to prevent reflections.
    Basic macro ring (without transfer of autofocus and aperture) is for approx. tenner on e-bay. Good for playing around.
    You can also put another (reverse) lens in front of your lens and use a gaffer tape or just keep it there by hand. Or an adapter with two threads.


  • #3
    Finnt
    Closed Accounts Posts: 594 ✭✭✭Finnt


    In terms of image quality which would prefrom better?


  • #4
    hbr
    Closed Accounts Posts: 760 ✭✭✭hbr


    Finnt wrote: »
    In terms of image quality which would prefrom better?

    Reversing rings and extension tubes seem like an excellent way to
    take macro shots without spending a fortune on a macro lens.

    There is a fundamental problem with both. Modern cameras have electronic
    aperture control. If the lens is mounted backwards or on the end of a hollow
    tube, there will be no aperture control or autofocus. You can probably live
    without AF, but aperture control is critically important for macro shooting.

    You may get good results if you use an older lens which has manual
    aperture and focus rings. If you will be using modern lenses, you will
    need extension tubes with built-in electrical connections so that the
    camera can communicate with the lens. You can buy 'auto' extension
    tubes, but they are more expensive than the basic ones. You can expect
    to pay around €100 for Kenko automatic extension tubes or a bit less
    for generic ones. Not cheap, but still less expensive than a macro lens.

    To get the best results from extension tubes, you will need to use
    them with a sharp and fast lens. I have seen great results from the
    Canon 50mm f/1.8 and auto extension tubes. You probably won't be
    happy with the results if you use tubes with a standard kit lens.

    Another option is screw-on diopter lenses which increase magnification
    by allowing the camera to focus closer to the subject. The cheaper
    ones are not great. The best one is the Canon 500D (not to be confused
    with the Eos 500D camera). This lens also costs over 100€.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7rrEQxjHmA


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