What the heck am I shooting with?
Nikon FM-10 35 mm SLR (fully manual)
Nikon N80 35 mm (auto, but I use it as a manual)
Nikon D80
Various Nikon/Tamron/Sigma lenses
Extension tubes (where most of the macro magic comes from)
Other assorted accessories that work with the film cameras – click through to the photo on flickr and all items are noted!
question: does extension tubes work with any lens? i’m a macro fan but i don’t have any macro lens and i couldn’t afford one yet…
Yes! Extension tubes are a great cheap(er) alternative to a true macro lens. You’ll want to be sure to find a set with the proper mount for your particular camera brand/model. I typically use them with my prime lens, and you’ll need to shoot with Manual settings as the extension tubes will not facilitate automatic aperture/focus adjustments.
Best tip I’ve ever received for macro photography, particularly with the very short DOF while using extension tubes, is to focus approx. where you’d like things to be sharp, then use your body and breath to bring the image into specific focus for the effect you want.
I love the standard 50 1.8. Can’t go wrong with that one.