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Anonymous
thinking about getting a Nikon AF60mm Micro lens, what do u guys think?
>> Anonymous
?
>> Anonymous
It's a good lens as long as you are happy with the working distance.
>> Anonymous
is it good, or are there better?
>> Anonymous
I'd personally go with a 50mm because its closer to eye sight. If you really want something cool get a 40mm pancake.
>> Anonymous
the nikkor macros are awesome lenses. they give a good working distance for macro of things like bugs and stuff, so theres less chance you disturb or startle it.
>> Anonymous
>>91541
when i say they give good working distance, i mean this one does. even better on a digital body.
>> Jeremo !iKGMr61IHM
>>91540

You're missing the point of the 60mm, it's a macro lens and a greater start at that... but honestly, i still think it's too short even with 1.5 crop. The 105mm work much better as you dont have to get as close. And i'm not just talking about the new 2.8 VR the old 105 was a great work horse.
>> Anonymous
>>91543
i has a d80
>> Teus !QbSstcPD6U
>>91540
thats not very relevant. also, mind digital crop factor.

I'm happy with my older 55mm f3,5, but a longer focal that goes up to 1:1 would be nicer (mine flakes out with an extension tube at 1:1). no idea if the 60mm is a retrofocal design.

a 90/100mm certainly is a retrofocal, so its sharper and with less distortion/aberration. you might consider a 90mm 3rd party macrolens
>> thefamilyman !!rTVzm2BgTOa
if you want something a little more flexible, try and look for a Nikkor ED AF Mircro 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6 D
>> Anonymous
>>91559

Keep in mind the 70-180 is around $1200 used.
>> thefamilyman !!rTVzm2BgTOa
>>91560
i got mine for about NZ$2000 a wile back New.
so i imagine they would be cheaper than that used US$1200
>> Anonymous
You do NOT want a macro lens that is shorter than 60mm. Otherwise when you are trying to get insect shots you will scare them as you approach. For dragonflies and some other bugs a 90/100mm would be better, but that lens is a good one (nearly all true macro lenses are) and 60mm will be okay for you for the majority of the time, but 60 is the minimum length you'll be happy with. The advantage for the 60 is that the shorter working distance than something like a 100 or 180 means less trouble with shake and it's easier in some difficult terrain.

Don't get a zoom if you really want to do macro work. Macro primes are all excellent, really. Don't worry about getting a bad one and choose what suits your working conditions, subjects and needs.