hoffmanvision

Hi, I'm a Nikon D70 shooter interested in getting into Macro. At first I was

going to get a true macro lens but then I learned about adding extension tubes

to my 50 1.8 or my 28 2.8 which would both save cash (I'm a poor starving

student) and offer more versatility. I've also been considering going with some

of the real cheap ebay bellows and a reversal ring for greater magnification.

My question is this: What differences will I see in terms of quality like

overall sharpness from center to corner, possible depth of field, working

distances, or other things I may be overlooking between a true Macro lens and

one adapted to the purpose?

I understand that I won't be able to meter, auto focus, or auto aperture with

most setups (excluding the Kenco auto tubes)- no matter!

How will quality in a 50 1.8 with 12mm tube compare to a 60mm Nikkor macro lens?

Know what I'm saying?

Thanks for all your info friends!

Sean

I just started messing around with this cool macro action! I've been playing with an 80-200 2.8D Nikkor attached to my D70 and hand holding my 50 1.8D Nikkor reversed in front of the 80-200. It achieves huge magnification but there is quite a bit of light spilling in between the two lenses, also depth of field in nearly non-existent.

From what I've read so far, it sounds like the PB6 is probably what I need. Here's my question: What do I need to make this work with my D70? It looks like a spacer are where it's at- any preferred model for a cheapskate? I assume the communication between the lens and the body will cease to exist so is there any reason to go with new stuff- seems like the older models would work just as well? Any compatibility issues with newer AF-D lenses and older mounts/spacers/reverse rings? Also, for mounting my 50 or my 28 in reverse (both 52mm filter threads) what reverse ring model am I looking for (what size are the threads on the bellows?) It seems like generic brand stuff would be fine for this application- anyone have experience with this?

Whew, lots of questions! thanks in advance