I’ve wanted a macro lens for years but whenever I went to buy a new lens, some other aspect of photography was motivating me so I never bought one. My upcoming trip to Moab, Utah and Arches National Park with Moose Peterson does not seem a very likely reason to buy a macro lens but the combination of Nikon’s lens rebate combined with Moose’s intriguing comment about macro lenses in his “what to bring” message to participants and an encouraging visit to the CPA about taxes this morning was enough to make me spring for one this afternoon.
I bought a Nikkor 105mm 2.8 lens and I discovered I have much to learn about macro photography. My friend Melinda’s coaching (use a tripod, use manual focus, and set a deeper depth of field that you’d think) coupled with some Kelby On-line Training videos, helped me with my first shots. This is a closeup of my favorite lens, my Nikkor 24-70mm 2.8 lens which I keep on my D800 at all times and which I carry with me in my Lowepro camera bag/purse at all times. It is apparent by the nicks and scratches on the surface of the lens body, clearly shown in this macro shot, that this is a well-used lens. Will my Nikkor 105mm 2.8 replace it? Only time will tell.
D7100
Focal Length 105mm
ISO 100
F/11
1.6 seconds
Now you are ready for anything that comes along as long as you can focus :)!