DSLR macro lenses are too expensive, what's a good current digital p&s for macro?

Prethen · January 22, 2008 7:50AM

I'm getting a Canon XTI with a great standard 28-135 (USM/IS) lens, but I can't really justify $400 for a dedicated macro lens. So, as a substitute, is there a really good point and shoot digital (currently available; not something I have to hunt down in a used bin somewhere) that's great for macro pictures? I'd like to find one that is a good vergence of high quality macro and low price and way under $400.

drwstr123 · January 22, 2008 8:02AM

You went for the bucks for a great camera, go for the lens. You'll never regret it. Mike

mgoodm3 · January 22, 2008 8:04AM

Used manual focus macro lenses can be had for <$200

fc · January 22, 2008 8:10AM

to answer your question, canon powershots are nice. best buy
carries them and wayy under 400.

BECOKA · January 22, 2008 8:11AM

<< Used manual focus macro lenses can be had for <$200 >>

Ditto on that. Once you start using the Canon for regular duty you won't miss a point and shoot. The photo quality makes it worth lugging around.

gecko109 · January 22, 2008 8:40AM

This pic, along with all my pics was taken with a Canon SD750 P&S camera that I bought new last year for $250. Once you familiarize yourself with its many features/settings, making an argument to spend over $800 on a DSLR+ Lens seems almost silly.

Edited to add: Here is a quick example of the camera's very satisfactory digital zoom ability as well.

slipgate · January 22, 2008 9:00AM

Look at the Nikon S51c (nikon) - we just git it and it has Nikon's VR system as well as macro mode.

You can't go wrong with Nikon!

8.1mp
$240

messydesk · January 22, 2008 9:01AM

<< Used manual focus macro lenses can be had for <$200 >>

Ah, but he has a Canon. Not sure if that's a viable option.

mgoodm3 · January 22, 2008 9:03AM

I found a 100mm canon macro manual focus for $179. Have they changed the lens mounts on Canons?

SeattleSlammer · January 22, 2008 9:20AM

The Canon SD series point and shoots are a good bet.

My SD 870 IS has a "digital macro" mode....which basically means it takes a macro shot and automatically digitally zooms the pic in real-time. I've been really impressed with it for easy, quality close-up shots. It was $349 but they have others that are below that with the same feature.....

Gecko, great shots!

Prethen · January 22, 2008 10:08AM

Great suggestions guys...thanks. I'm not sure if a pure manual focus will work with this DSLR. I was also advised to stay clear of the cheaper 50mm due to the fact that it has a much closer focal distance which can interfere with lighting. I'm also leaning pretty heavily towards going to the ANA Summer Seminar photography class this summer.

blu62vette · January 22, 2008 10:10AM

<< I found a 100mm canon macro manual focus for $179. Have they changed the lens mounts on Canons? >>

Some of them are quite different.... I am searching for a DSLR for my grandfather and the canon system he is on is not compatible

planetsteve · January 22, 2008 10:20AM

<< I found a 100mm canon macro manual focus for $179. Have they changed the lens mounts on Canons? >>

Yes -- Canon launched the EF mount with their first EOS (autofocus) camera. (The argument was for purely electronic connections between body and lens, as well as to allow for larger rear elements.) Though there are some oddball adapters that don't allow infinity focus or autoexposure, the FD manual focus mount is practically incompatible with the EOS (including all digital) SLRs.

I'm inclined to agree with the OP that the 50mm (and 60mm) lengths are too short for comfort, but I know some members here would beg to differ. Still, if the alternative is to buy an entirely different camera for $250 or more, why not consider the Canon EF 100mm macro for an additional $100 or $150?

Prethen · January 22, 2008 11:52AM

<< Still, if the alternative is to buy an entirely different camera for $250 or more, why not consider the Canon EF 100mm macro for an additional $100 or $150? >>

This is precisely the conundrum I'm facing.

oldwestgold · January 22, 2008 12:21PM

Look for closeout Marco Lens. I found one for my sony DSLR for around $80 brand new in box. The original retail was something like $300+. They are out there. You'll never get great detailed closeups without one. I would seach the market before spending money on a point and shoot. You might be surprised what you dig up.

notwilight · January 22, 2008 12:27PM

Buy the canon esm 100mm

TwoKopeiki · January 22, 2008 12:43PM

I use a 105mm Sigma with a Rebel XT and love the results. I was able to buy it used for about $250.

Here's an example - CLICK ME

mgoodm3 · January 22, 2008 1:10PM

Kinda sucks that they changed their lens mount. Keeps you away from all sort of nice old stuff.

TwoKopeiki · January 22, 2008 1:14PM

<< Kinda sucks that they changed their lens mount. Keeps you away from all sort of nice old stuff. >>

Mark, can't you still get an adapter for the FD mount, like planetsteve mentioned?

gecko109 · January 22, 2008 3:21PM

Great shot on that 1890 half Jerry!

Frankcoins · January 22, 2008 7:55PM

I have an Olympus D545 cost $199, available used for $75. Most P&S camera with a super macro setting work fine

drwstr123 · January 22, 2008 8:42PM

100mm Macro-Pentax:

DSLR macro lenses are too expensive, what's a good current digital p&s for macro?

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DSLR macro lenses are too expensive, what's a good current digital p&amp;s for macro?

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DSLR macro lenses are too expensive, what's a good current digital p&s for macro?