Can the Nikon D3200 with 18-105mm VR shoot insects and close-up macro photos?
Asked 2/23/2013
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I'm planning to buy a Nikon D3200 with the 18-105mm VR lens and want to photograph insects and flowers in close-up. Can this kit lens do true macro work with good detail, or would I need extra gear such as extension tubes or a dedicated Nikon Micro lens? Autofocus compatibility with the D3200 is also important to me.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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You can make non-macro (micro in Nikon lingo) lenses focus at closer distances, and at higher magnification, using extension tubes.
Extension tubes add additional distance between the lens and sensor and have the following downsides:
Loss of light; anywhere from 1-3 (or more) stops of light loss depending on the amount of extension
Inability to focus at infinity; meaning when the lens focus ring is set to infinity, it won't really be at infinity, but this is usually not a factor when doing macro closeup work
You must get the lens physically closer to the subject than you would if using a true macro lens
If you want to retain autofocus and exposure (i.e. aperture) control, then get tubes either from the manufacturer, or, I suggest Kenko brand which offer these features. You will most likely not have one, or both, of these abilities with cheap alternative tubes.
Originally by user13736. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user13736
13y ago
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Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The 18-105mm VR can shoot close-ups, but it is not a true macro lens, so it’s limited for insects and high-magnification detail. If you want stronger magnification, extension tubes can help by letting the lens focus closer. The trade-offs are light loss, losing infinity focus, and needing to get physically closer to the subject.
For the best results, a dedicated macro lens is the better choice. Nikon calls these “Micro” lenses. For insects, a medium-to-long focal length macro lens is especially useful because it gives you more working distance, helping you avoid casting a shadow or disturbing the subject.
Since the D3200 needs a lens with a built-in focus motor for autofocus, look for an AF-S Micro lens or a third-party equivalent with its own motor if autofocus matters to you.
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AI13y ago
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