Buying a macro lens: what to look for?

Macro lenses are mainly used in nature photography because they allow you to capture even the tiniest of details. But what exactly is a macro lens, and what's good about them? This blog explains all you need to know about macro lenses.

Snel naar: What is a macro lens?When to buy a macro lens?Pros & ConsWhat to photograph with a macro lens?

Canon EF 28mm macrolens

What is a macro lens?

A macro lens is ideal for capturing the smallest of details. From coins to miniscule insects. Most macro lenses have a magnification factor of 1:1. In this instance the subject is captured in life-size.

The focal length, focusing distance and aperture also have a vital role with macro lenses. This is because the focal length determines whether you, as the photographer, need to be close to the subject or whether the camera does that for you. The focal length can range from 50 to 200 mm.

The focusing distance determines how close you can focus on the subject. The shorter the focusing distance is, the closer you focus on your subject.

The focusing distance determines how close you can focus on the subject. The shorter the focusing distance is, the closer you focus on your subject. The aperture determines the degree to which the subject stands out. The larger the aperture, the blurrier the background and the sharper the foreground, or the subject. This is also known as the bokeh effect. Moreover, a macro lens with a fixed aperture will provide better quality photos than one with a variable aperture.

All macro lenses

 

Pros & Cons at a glance

The pros of a macro lens

  1:1mm; all in life-size

 Clear details

 Lovely depth of field

The cons of a macro lens

 You need to get close to the subject with a short focal length

 Motion blur clearly visible in the details if you don't have a steady hand

When to buy a macro lens?

A macro lens is a terrific addition to your photography gear if you're looking to capture microscopic details. A macro lens is a master at this, as you can achieve a sharp photo at the shortest distance possible. Moreover, every detail is captured in life-size, so your image corresponds with reality. Whether it is used for nature or product photography, everything is captured in life-size.

Due to the different focal lengths, you can also use a macro lens for portrait photography, in particular lenses with a focal length of 100 mm.

Our macro lens product range offers the choice between various focal lengths and focusing distances.

What to photograph with a macro lens?

With a macro lens you have several options of what you can photograph. First and foremost, a macro lens is used to capture the smallest of details. This makes it ideal for macro, nature, and product photography. But the various focal lengths also make a macro lens ideal for portraiture.

Which macro lens should I buy?

Need help choosing the right macro lens? We've compiled a Top 10 macro lens list for you: