What is the technical difference between regular lenses and macro lenses? What are their pros and cons in close-up photography?
A.: The true macro lenses are single focal length lenses corrected for a flat field, a high resolution and low distortion at close distances. Some macro lenses can produce life-size images without extension tubes. Cons: Expensive. In New York the prices are: Nikon 105 mm/2.8 $650, Canon 100mm/2.8 $580, Minolta 100mm/2,8 $600. Macro lenses made by independent manufactures are more reasonably priced. Both the Sigma 105/2,8 $389 and the Tamron 90/2.8 $400 are very good. Some zoom lenses can provide a 1:2 life-size at a lower cost. Their optical performance is adequate for nature photography but not for copy work requiring a flat field and a low distortion. A close-up lens and an extension tube (for single focal length lenses only) are low cost options to be considered. Erik ekissa@aol.com Another e-mail question was sent from a Club member to Bob Coffey.
