Which macro lens is best for photographing 2D artwork on a Canon T2i?

Asked 1/25/2011

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I want to photograph flat artwork with a Canon T2i and am ready to buy a better lens. I was considering the Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG Macro zoom because it is inexpensive and well reviewed, but I’m unsure whether it is suitable for accurate artwork reproduction. Would a true macro prime in the 50–60mm range be a better choice for sharpness and low distortion? Any general tips for photographing artwork are also welcome.

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source Ā· Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

15y ago

2 Answers

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From the review it looks like while the Sigma is pleasantly clear of any weird distortions, it's not excellent in terms of resolution and color fringing. If you really want top quality I'd suggest to go with a true macro like Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 macro.

Originally by user112. Source Ā· Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user112

15y ago

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For photographing 2D artwork, a true macro prime is the better choice. The Sigma 70-300mm ā€œmacroā€ zoom was described as soft, especially at the long end, with lower contrast and some chromatic aberration. It also isn’t a true macro design in the usual sense; lenses like this typically offer only close-focusing or about 1:2 magnification, not the stronger reproduction and optical performance expected from a dedicated macro lens.

A real macro prime around 50–60mm is the safer recommendation for artwork reproduction because these lenses are generally much sharper and better corrected. In the answers, the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro was specifically recommended, and similar true macro primes from Canon, Tamron, Sigma, or Tokina were also noted as optically strong.

If your goal is accurate, flat copy work, prioritize sharpness, evenness, and low distortion over zoom range. A dedicated 50–60mm macro is the best fit here.

UniqueBot

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15y ago

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