Nikon SLR Cameras

Best macro lenses under $200?

Strider
Strider

I don't care whether its used, vintage, prime, or third party. I just want a good macro lens for Nikon D5100. I will mainly be shooting insects. I know its a low budget, but like I said, it can be used or vintage, I just want the lens it self to be good quality.

Nick
Nick

Well, you'd be hard-pressed to find even a vintage Nikon AIS macro lens that's in good shape for less than 200 dollars. Here's some other very fine options, however:

1. If you have a prime lens 50mm or wider that has a manual aperture ring, simply buy a reversal ring to convert to macro usage:

http://www.amazon.com/...009RC457Q/

PROS: Cheapest option - $10 or less! Great optical quality
CONS: Less depth of field than a true macro lens. Must get close to insects, which may scare them away and limit opportunities. Viewfinder visually dims when aperture ring is closed down. Manual focus only.
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2. Pentax 105mm F2.8 Super Takumar macro lens:

http://www.keh.com/camera/Pentax-Screwmount-Fixed-Focal-Length-Lenses/1/sku-PS06009007544N?r=FE

Pair it with a GLASSLESS adapter to fit your Nikon DSLR body:

http://www.amazon.com/...003Y2ZESE/

PROS:
Very cheap option. Very rugged build. Lens has optical quality matching Nikon's more expensive AIS version.

CONS: Manual focus only (many macro shooters don't use autofocus anyway). Viewfinder will visually dim as you close down aperture. You won't be able to focus to infinity, limiting use as a macro lens only - no portraits.
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3. Save up another $120 for a Tamron 90mm f2.8 macro.

Photographe
Photographe

There's allot of way to get started in macro if you can't afford a real macro lens.

Reverse adapter ring, not my favourite but it work.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...av-Search=

Extension tube, can cost between $20 to $200 depending if you buy a kit that will provide electric circuit. Extension tube do not have any lens inside, they're empty so there's no loss in quality, only less light so you'll probably need a flash or something to lit the subject.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...4077634539

Canon 500D close up lens, you can attach it in front of any lens, you just have to buy the right filter size.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...av-Search=

Raynox 250 super macro lens, you attach it in front of the lens.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...Macro.html

More info.http://www.diyphotography.net/the-comprehensive-guide-to-macro-photography