Macro photography is something that I’ve always wanted to try. And, I found out that there are 5 different ways to do macro photography:
1) Get a dedicated macro lens. (Definitely the best option, but probably most expensive.)
2) Get a tele-converter or extension tubes that will work with existing lenses. (Works with varying degrees of success, depending on cameras and lenses used.)
3) Use close-up filters. (Possible, but not really the best.)
4) Maximise the use of existing lens and just use “macro shooting mode”. (Unless existing lens has good semi-macro possibilities, it’s not the most ideal solution.)
5) Use a reversing ring to reverse existing lens. (Can work well, but will depend on the type of lens. And can be cumbersome for newbies.)
Well, after looking at the various options, I decided to go for option #1. But, since I didn’t want to spend too much money on this, I had a look around at various cheaper options. And, I found that one of the best things about the D40x is its ability to work with older, non-AId lenses.
So, I decided to get myself an old Micro Nikkor lens from eBay (Nikon 55mm f3.5), based on some recommendations from more experienced photographers and D40/x users. No, it doesn’t autofocus on the D40x, but apparently, it’s one good little old lens. And, I was told that I don’t really need autofocus with macro work anyway. And, besides, it’s a good, cheap option. I mean, there are other Nikon lenses that will work well with the D40x, but they’re way out of my budget. So, it’s the 55mm 3.5 for me.
So yeah, not only am I going to have to learn macro photography techniques – I will have to learn the very basic art of manual focusing. Scary.
Anyway, I did some test shots, and here are some results…
Manual focusing will definitely take some time to get used to. I’m not really happy with these shots, but I don’t mind sharing so I can show you that yes, I am all for just giving it a go.
Will share more findings and lessons as they come. If you’re in to macro photography and would like to share some tips or feedback, would love to read all about your thoughts and ideas.
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I have a 55mm glass lens that’s around 20ish years old (used to be my Dad’s) which I use with extensions on my Pentax *ist DL DSLR, as in your option number 2.
I have so far not used any tripods, except for a table with the subject on it. As for focus, I’ve found it easiest to set the focus ring such that the subject’s mostly in focus, and then change the distance of the camera to fine tune the focussing. As an example:
http://photography.augustboehm.com/view/d/53548-2/IMGP6580f.jpg
Something I haven’t tried yet is doing Macro photography together with ‘painting with light’ (using a moving torch in a dark environment during a long exposure to expose the subject).
Have fun
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August: Wow. Thanks for sharing! “Painting with light” is what I’d love to be able to do. BTW, enjoyed visiting your blog.
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Hi. Another invaluable photography tips for a newbie with DSLRs like me. I was initially looking at getting those macro close up lens (Option 3 in your post) as they are the cheaper option for me at the moment. But maybe I have to reconsider look at getting any of those compatible Nikkor Micro lenses. Thanks again. Looking forward to more photography tips. PS: I like the new webpage layout.
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Shai Coggins reply on January 28th, 2008:
Thank you! Glad you found the tips useful. As you can tell, I’m also just a newbie DSLR user. But, lovin’ it sooo much. I enjoy making notes and sharing what I learned along the way. So, it’s good to know when someone picks up a thing or two from what I share.
Anyway, yeah… I think it’s definitely worth looking at older Nikkor lenses that’re compatible with your new camera. If you have the D40/x like me, that’s one of its advantages, as they work with the older manual lenses. A good way to collect some good glass for a fraction of the price! 
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Hello Shai,
I write a website called Macro Photography for Beginners. It is rather “wordy” but I thought maybe you (or your readers) will find it useful. I think your images are very good for first attempts. I don’t use a Nikon but on my camera (which is five year old Canon) it beeps and flashes to show that it is in focus when manually focussing. Try depressing the shutter half way when you have your subject in focus. I know you posted this a year ago so you’re probably much better/ an expert at macro photography by now!
I think that you would you need a very small torch/flash light to paint with light in macro photography!
Marvin Africa
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