Can extension tubes be used with a 70-200mm telephoto lens?
Asked 9/9/2011
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I want to use extension tubes on a Canon 70-200mm telephoto lens to focus closer. I may be able to buy some macro extension tubes and I’m wondering whether they will also work on a telephoto zoom, or if they are only useful with shorter lenses.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
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Yup, they'll work - tubes should work* with any lens, even a reversed one for extreme macro.
But the magnification is relative to the focal length - so adding 50mm of extension tubes to 200mm doesn't get you super close, show stopping macro shots. Using it at the 70mm end will produce higher magnification shots (although probably not 1:1), but less working distance.
Also, check out How can I estimate the reproduction ratio of an unknown macro setup? and How can I calculate the change an extension tube makes to the maximum magnification of a lens?
*Obviously if they don't have electrical contacts you'll lose a lot of auto stuff, but that's not relevant to the focal length issue.
Originally by user1917. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1917
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes. Extension tubes can be used with a telephoto lens like a 70-200mm, and they simply let the lens focus closer.
A few things to expect:
- They work with many lenses, not just dedicated macro lenses.
- The amount of magnification you gain depends on focal length and tube length.
- On the 200mm end, a given amount of extension usually gives only a modest increase in magnification.
- On the 70mm end, the same tubes will give more magnification, but with less working distance.
So if your goal is true macro or very high magnification, tubes on a 70-200mm may not be dramatic. But if you just want to reduce the minimum focus distance and get a bit closer, they can work very well.
Also note that some tubes do not pass through electronic contacts. If so, you may lose autofocus and possibly aperture control, depending on the lens.
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