Macro | Camera Lenses And Filters

Closeup Lens Filter

September 9th, 2011 admin No comments

Closeup Lens Filter

How do I get my macro filter to work?

So I got this macro filter (58mm 500D) to attach on my Canon SLR Rebel XTi with a 70-300mm IS telephoto and I can't get it to work very well. When I try to get a good closeup with the Automatic Focus, the focus just wonders in and out and can never find the right focus. When I use the Manual Focus I can sometimes get a decent picture but the majority are mostly out of focus. It seems like I need to get the exact right distance from the subject and the exact right focus to get a good picutre but if I move in the slightest or the subject does, it's all out of focus. Any advice on how to take better pictures with this filter? Also what's the best settings (aperature speed, f-stop, etc.) for macros?

I'm still very novice at using my SLR camera so any help is appreciated. Also I'm not interested in getting a true macro lens at this time.

Well, that's supposed to be good for your lens, so...

The thing about "macro filters" is that they leave you with about ZERO depth of field. In other words, the main subject is the ONLY thing that will be in focus. The farther towards 300 mm you go, the more this effect will be observed.

I suggest using manual focus all the time with this attachment. First, compose your picture by zooming and positioning yourself so the main subject is in the frame the way you want it to be. Then focus manually until the main subject is acceptably sharp. You may have to get it close and then move back and forth slightly to fine tune your focus.

You will make out better if you keep the lens on infinity and compose by zooming in or out. That's just the way it is with "macro filters."

A tripod would help. Using a small aperture, like f/16 or f/22 would help get more in focus. If you have depth of field preview, this is a good time to find out how it works so you can check on your picture. If you don't have it, don't worry about it. Digital is free, so just take the picture and check the LCD. Zooming in on the display to check focus is helpful.

It would also be helpful to stay closer to the 70 mm end of your lens. You can get the same size image if you are on 70 mm at 2 feet as you can if you are on 300 mm at 6 or 8 feet. Okay, my numbers are not exact or correct, but try this and you'll see what I mean.

You are ultimately just teasing yourself for the day when you buy a true macro lens. (haha)

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