Macro Filter Suggestions?
I have a Nikon d5100 with the 18-55mm kit lens. I don't have the money to purchase a macro lens, however I would really like to shoot some macro shots. I have seen people using these filters that attach to the lens, and I have seen several cheap on ebay. I was wondering if anyone could recommend some reputable and good quality filters.
Actually filters should be your last choice.
You can buy extension tubes with electrical contacts that produce much higher quality closeups than any filter, but still very affordable.
Those cheap, plastic magnifying filters on Ebay are worth just what you pay for them. Not recommended. There's another alternative. Canon makes a very substantial close up filter / lens called the 500d. Yes, you can use a Canon filter on your Nikon lens, though I think the Canon lens is only available in 77mm thread size, so you would need a step up adapter so the filter would fit on your lens. I have the Canon 500d lens. It is a heavy, quality piece of glass that can allow some very close up shots, though of course, it is still not a true macro lens. However, the Canon filter costs about $120, much less than a true macro lens.
Put the following term into Google and you can get plenty of info about the lens:
Canon 500d close up lens
Don't bother with the filters.
Another option is to look into 'reverse lens macro'
Basically you remove your lens, hold it back-to-front up to your camera body and it can take macro shots.
However, you will need to be in manual mode, and focusing is done by moving your camera back and forth until you have focus. But it is free. Google a tutorial. You can also get adapters that hold your lens back-to-front, if you are afraid of dropping it.
Otherwise cheap extension tubes is a good option.