Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro vs EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro on a Rebel T3
Asked 7/10/2011
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I have a Canon EOS Rebel T3 and want my first true macro lens with 1:1 magnification. I'm comparing the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro and the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro. Aside from focal length, what are the practical differences between them on a crop-sensor body like the T3? Does the 100mm let me shoot from farther away at the same magnification, and which lens makes more sense for flowers versus insects? I'd also like to know whether there are any important macro-specific considerations for a beginner before buying.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
6
It looks like the big difference between those two lenses is mainly the focal length. (Although the 100mm is a EF lens instead of an EF-S lens, which means if you ever went full frame, it would still work.) Yes, longer length gives you more working distance to the subject. For flower and stationary subjects, it may not matter. But if you're planning on doing insects or other skittish things, longer working distance is almost always better. You'll also get a bit different perspective between the two lenses, which may or may not be what you want.
There's also third party brands like the Sigma 105mm and the Tamron 90mm that are also options.
In terms of exposure stuff, here's a good place to start.
Originally by user1917. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1917
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Both are true macro lenses and can do 1:1 magnification. The main practical difference is focal length.
The 100mm gives you more working distance at the same magnification, so you can stay farther from the subject. That’s especially helpful for insects or other skittish subjects. The 60mm puts you closer, which is usually fine for flowers and other stationary subjects.
On your Rebel T3’s crop sensor, the 60mm gives a field of view similar to about a 100mm lens on full frame, while the 100mm behaves more like a 160mm equivalent. That affects framing and perspective, but both are usable for macro.
Other differences:
- The 100mm is an EF lens, so it can also be used on full-frame Canon bodies.
- The 60mm is EF-S only, for Canon APS-C bodies.
- The 100mm is heavier; for handheld macro, some people may prefer the lighter 60mm.
For macro in general, depth of field is extremely shallow at close distances, so many photographers stop down and often focus manually, sometimes using a tripod.
If your main subjects are bugs, lean toward 100mm. If you mostly want flowers or general close-ups on your T3, the 60mm is a solid choice.
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