Macro Mode Question

Hi,

I am wondering if when the macro mode is used, does it actually do anything to decrease the minimum focusing distance. (so that you would be able to get closer to the subject) For example, if the minimum focusing distance for a camera lens is 12 inches, would using the macro mode change the minimum focusing distance to lets say 8 inches.

I know the macro mode will auto adjust the aperture, and I know that in many cases it is not truly macro but simply a close up mode.

I'm just trying to figure out why manufacturers seem to make the macro mode out to be a big thing if it doesn't allow you to focus closer when it is used.

This is a start, not bad IMO

Using your digital camera's macro mode

With a DSLR camera, macro mode doesn't change the minimum focusing distance, it just forces the camera to use smaller apertures. What camera are you using?

Some normal lenses have a macro mode, which allows the lens to focus closer. This is usually limited to a magnification of about 1/3, roughly postcard size. For macro mode in a camera, consult the user's manual.

 

True macro lenses may have a range limiter for auto focus, such as 3' to infinity, closer than 3' or no limits. This doesn't change the lens, but makes auto focus faster, with less hunting. Macro lenses often focus internally, so it can get good results at all distances, from infinity to 1:1 magnification.

As a rule, the close focus distance of any lens is a fixed, physical parameter of lens design. It can be modified by the addition of extension tubes (for closer focus distance) or tele-extenders (for longer effective focal length). Keep in mind that the focus distance is measured from the Focal Plane, not from the front of the lens. Auto macro modes do not change the lens' native close focus distance, but may change the way the camera automatically responds to issues of close focus, applicable aperture (smaller for greater depth of field), ISO settings, etc. It will depend on the algorithms for that manufacturer and camera body/lens combination. I always use manual settings when shooting in macro because the camera's best guess at my intended plane of focus and other criteria is rarely correct. The single most critical variable in macro photography is precisely controlling depth of field. The field of focus is so extraordinarily narrow/shallow than the photographer must make a very conscious decision regarding which part of the subject is to be in focus, and then control both focal distance and aperture to obtain that effect. Most macro photographers find they set their lenses to closest focus, select the exposure combination that uses the smallest usable aperture, and then move the entire camera until the desired plane of focus is achieved. This is not what the automatic "macro" setting does or anticipates, and is mostly a gimmick to sell cameras. If you try to use the auto settings and then move the camera back and forth the plane of focus will not be controllable (unless you use manual focus). That is not to say you shouldn't use macro setting. It just means you need to understand its limitations and adjust your expectations accordingly.

With a DSLR camera, macro mode doesn't change the minimum focusing distance

Depends on what you call macro mode. - My 100/2.8 has a focusing range limiter switch so it won't rack from 1:1 back to infinity (which takes a while...) when it fails to lock focus for a portrait.

 

I think I have various P&S cameras that do focus closer then usually with their macro modes activated. @lindapeterson please let us know what camera we are talking about and maybe we can deliver substantial replies.