I would tend to make 100mm the upper limit because with the sensor crop factor on a Canon 450D this is the equivalent of a 160mm lens in 35mm terms. Hand holding at close focusing range is very difficult with longer lenses.

This also means the 60mm macro lens equates to 96mm in 35mm terms.

If funds become available, they are quite expensive, I would suggest getting a ringflash. This actually fits to the end of your lens and gives a lovely lighting effect. A must for really serious Macro photography. It is very useful and gives a very nice eye highlight with portrait photography also.

Happy shooting and hope to see some of the results.

Steve

Well it took a while but I am now the proud owner of a Sigma 70mm F2.8 macro lens.

Santa decided on the length in the end and I don't think he was far wrong.

Now another question and building a bit on Steves comments re:flash.

I am seriously considering a ring flash, Canons version comes in about the £350-00 mark, which is a bit steep, then Sigma comes in about the £220-00 mark which obviously should suit the lens as they are both made by the same people but then we have the Marumi which looks outwardly similair and is only around £120-00.

Has anyone any experience of the Marumi or heard anything about their products???

Also, would I be able to use the ring flash for general work too?? I had been going to by a 430EX Speedlite.

Any opinions valued as I am not experienced enough to make the decision and don't want to duplicate kit if it isn't neccesary.

You would need to check whether or not the Canon ring flash was compatible with that particular lens, else it might be wise to go for the Sigma. I have no experience with Marumi however their ring flash seems to get ok reviews as an entry level flash system.

Bazza could you let us see a representative image from the Tamron please, I am still wanting to buy a macro lens but can't decide between the Pentax 100mm 2.8, the Sigma 70mm 2.8 or perhaps the 105mm and now am wondering about the Tamron.

So any help would be gratefully received as I am beginning to feel giddy.

This one of my first efforts with the Sigma 70mm F2.8 if that is any help.
I find focussing is a critical area and minute adjustments make a huge difference.


Sorry but for some reason none of my pics from flickr will open on here today.