Since that caterpillar incident and the frustration at not having a proper MACRO lens, I proceeded to do some surfing. The most highly recommended MACRO lens (at an affordable price range) is the Tamron SP90 f/2.8. However, I stumbled upon a relatively new lens by Tamron, the SP60 f/2.
I had initially wanted to get the new Sony 50mm f/1.8 which doesn’t have a 1:1 MACRO capability. The focal length and maximum aperture of this lens come close with the advantage of the MACRO capability.
Would anyone out there have any first hand experience between the two lenses I mentioned? The new Sony 50 mm f/1.8 and the Tamron 60 mm f/2? Although the price difference between the 2 is huge, something like 3x more for the Tamron, it may save me from buying a 50mm prime and another MACRO lens.
5 comments:
The solution is simple.. buy both :)
Hmmm ... sponsor?
I think the 50mm lens is pretty affordable, right?
Neo: Yes, but if I only need 1 lens, I would prefer just to have 1 instead of 2.
I have the 50mm SAM 1.8, and I really don't think that you can go wrong with it. One thing that you should be aware of regarding the 60mm macro is the fact that it is not TRULY f2 throughout the focus range. When the lens focuses closer, it loses light and the shutter speed slows though the lens will still report f2. The lens is not truly f2 until about 6+ feet, which is actually a bit longer than you'd think. 1.8 will give you 2/3 stop or more in those first 6 feet, though obviously it won't focus as close. Go with the 50mm SAM and a "plastic fantastic" by Vivitar or Cosina. For $100, it's a sharp, cheap, light, and fun macro with a long working distance.
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