Impatience!

Fuji has a very exciting lens on the Lens Road Map, at least for me!   The 120mm Micro f 2.8 is not due to arrive until sometime in 2016!  I am sure it will be fantastic, everything else these guys have made is!  I can’t wait, well, I’m going t have to wait, but I sure am looking forward to a longer macro lens that goes 1:1!   I have several option that are working now, but a few weeks ago Rokinon announced a 100mm Macro f 2.8 lens that goes to 1:1.   It sounded interesting so I picked one up to check it out.  I did a little test with several lenses I use for close-up work in addition to the 60mm Micro from Fuji.  Below are some sample images of my Tascam hand held recorder, or a small part of it.  You can draw your own conclusions but my estimation is that if you do not have a longer Micro with 1:1 capabilities the Rokinon is a great deal for less than $600.  The Nikkor 105 mm Micro f 2.8 is even better deal and lens and can be purchased for much less than $600. in mint condition, but the downside is it only goes stop 1/2 life size.  A 200mm Micro Nikkor will cost you a lot more, but does go 1:1 and at much greater working distance, downside?  It cost nearly two grand, of you can find one.  If you do a lot of close-up work it is worth it, “if you can’t wait for the Fuji 100 mm Macro.”  The last option is the most reasonable, most convent and the least painful on your wallet.  If  you already own the 180-135 Fuji zoom, (and if you don’t, it is being discounted right now!!!) A 67mm to 77 mm step up ring and Canon 500D Close-up diopter does a terrific hop and you can zoom for image size!  You can’t get as close, obviously, but for many folks 1/4 life size is close-enough!

Here are the test shots of each:

First the 105mm Micro Nikkor (all images shot at f 11)

The Rokinon 100mm f 2.8 Macro

200mm Micro Nikkor

The Fuji 18-135 super zoom with he Canon 500D

So there you have it, a lot of ways to get to approximately the same place.  Fortunately it all works, just some options are more convenient than the others.  Good technique and being careful and you can make it happen.  Isn’t this photography thing fun!!!!