Wanting to know some basic do's and don'ts for someone who wants to starte Macro
"True Macro" means reproduction should be life-size, or above. Anything less would be considered "Close Up". So when looking at lenses be sure they have one to one (1:1) magnification, since many lenses labeled "macro" only reproduce as little as 1/5th (1:5) life size on the film/sensor.
Other things to consider are "angle of view"... Please check this post for explanation.
Nikon has a couple of "true" macro lenses available, and several "after-market" companies such as Tamron, and Sigma do also. Either you choose should do fine, since all true macro lenses are generally sharp corner, to corner.
Once you purchase a lens, depending on what you intend on doing with your shots (web posting, or will you be doing large prints) will decide the amount of cropping you'll be able to do. So additional accessories such extension tubes, converters, and bellows will increase magnification even further.
You'll also find a tripod, or flash (most preferred) will be needed when shooting insects. But above all, patience is the key.
I'm sure others have additional advice, or post any questions and everyone here will be glad to help.
Welcome to the "tiny world".
Insanity: doing the same thing over, and over again expecting different results. (Albert Einstein)
www.dangphoto.weebly.com
Thanks! 
The Macro Master has spoken. Thanks, dang.dang wrote: Hi Michael,
"True Macro" means reproduction should be life-size, or above. Anything less would be considered "Close Up". So when looking at lenses be sure they have one to one (1:1) magnification, since many lenses labeled "macro" only reproduce as little as 1/5th (1:5) life size on the film/sensor.
Other things to consider are "angle of view"... Please check this post for explanation.
Nikon has a couple of "true" macro lenses available, and several "after-market" companies such as Tamron, and Sigma do also. Either you choose should do fine, since all true macro lenses are generally sharp corner, to corner.
Once you purchase a lens, depending on what you intend on doing with your shots (web posting, or will you be doing large prints) will decide the amount of cropping you'll be able to do. So additional accessories such extension tubes, converters, and bellows will increase magnification even further.
You'll also find a tripod, or flash (most preferred) will be needed when shooting insects. But above all, patience is the key.
I'm sure others have additional advice, or post any questions and everyone here will be glad to help.
Welcome to the "tiny world".
Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork
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