Macro - Close up lenses or extension tubes

[Chris Bishop]

I'm looking to play with a bit of macro photography. Before investing in a macro lens, would it be better to use close up lenses or extension tubes? I have a (canon) 50 1.8 II or a "kit" 70-250, which one should I use. I've decided on the 50mm prime (1.6 crop factor), unless taught otherwise by this forum - can always learn! I've also thought extension tubes rather than close up lenses (fliters in effect). The subject is flaura and fauna.
I have a focus plate from a pano project I did earlier. Is it better to focus with this and keep the lens at infinity.
As you can see these are novice questions. can any suggest a book, or website for info?
In my analogue days I had zooms that did "macro", closer than my kit lens.
Chris Bishop

[rod barbee]

Hi Chris,

With what you already have, I'd suggest using the 70-250 with a quality close up lens like the Canon 500D. The other option is to use extension tubes with your zoom, but that can be awkward.
I wouldn't recommend using the 50 with either extension or close up lenses because you'd have to get so darn close to you subject. Also, because it's a 50mm lens, you won't have the background control you'd have with the longer lenses (narrower angle of view with the longer lens).

Here are some ways of getting close: http://www.barbeephoto.com/articles/close%20up/get_close.htm

Probably the best reference on this subject is John Shaw's Close Ups in Nature.

And yes, your focusing plate is probably the easiest way to focus. No need to leave focus at infinity, just use it to fine tune.

rod

[Bill Lewis]

Hi Chris,

I whole heartedly agree with Rod's reply. I've been using the Canon 500D for nearly a decade and have been pleased with its results. I typically use it on my 70-200 lens and enjoy the ability to use the zoom to crop when maximum magnification isn't the goal. Also a closeup lens doesn't have any light loss, an advantage when a maddening breeze is ever so gently moving your subject about. I always pack my 500D when backpacking. Leaving my dedicated macro lens behind lightens my ever increasing heavy pack, which becomes more important with every tick of the clock! 

 Along with Closeups in Nature I would also suggest John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide for its updated macro techniques.

Bill

[Chris Bishop]

Thanks for the replies. sorry for the delay but I was away from the internet (and phones!!)
Chris