Can you use extension tubes on an ultra-wide lens for macro photography?
Asked 6/28/2011
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I’ve seen reports that lenses like the Canon EF-S 10-22mm can be used with 12mm or 25mm extension tubes, potentially giving very high magnification. Does this actually work in practice for macro photography with an ultra-wide lens? How much working distance do you get, and does the lens end up blocking most of the light? I’m also curious whether this is practical for composing shots or if it’s mostly a novelty compared with using a longer focal length lens.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
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Here's Estonian reverse of 1 euro-cent shot with my widest lens, Zenitar 16, at f/11 on 19mm extension tubes, giving 1.18x magnification:
Not much room for lighting indeed, sidelight or glow-through with a translucent subject seem to be the only options:
Originally by user4390. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4390
15y ago
0
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Yes, it can work, and extension tubes on very short focal lengths can produce very high magnification. In general, the shorter the lens, the more magnification a given amount of extension gives.
The tradeoff is extremely small working distance. With an ultra-wide lens, the front of the lens can end up very close to the subject, making composition awkward and lighting difficult. Lens shadow is a real problem, so side lighting or shooting translucent subjects with light passing through them may work best.
Other practical issues are very shallow depth of field even when stopped down, and possible vignetting at the widest end when using a lot of extension.
So: yes, people have done it successfully, but it’s not usually convenient. Many shooters find that around 35mm is a more practical wide end for macro with extension tubes. Going much wider tends to become difficult enough that it’s more of a creative/special-purpose technique than an easy everyday macro setup.
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