Shoot 2:1 Macro Without a Macro Lens

Would you like to get some really tight macro shots but don't have the several hundred dollars that it would take to buy an actual macro lens? With some inexpensive parts and a second hand lens, you can do it for next to nothing!


 * The images for this article are Nikon related, but the same applies for any other make of camera.

Steps

 * 1) Get the things you'll need listed below. Some great sources are eBay and Amazon and other sites like that. Keep in mind that if you are only going to use the lens for this, it doesn't have to be specifically for your camera.[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 1.jpg|center]]
 * 2) * When you get the reversing ring, make sure that it fits the 50mm lens that you are using. It will need to be the same size as the filters that you would use on it.
 * 3) Assemble them together. Put your full set of extension tubes together and also the reversing ring on the 50mm lens. The standard set of extension tubes are 38mm long when you use all three. The reversing ring and lens diameter is 52mm.[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 2.jpg|center]]
 * 4) Put the extension tubes onto the camera body. Be sure to use the correct side. You may have to turn it a couple of times for it to tighten securely[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 3.jpg|center]]
 * 5) Fasten the reversing ring and the lens to the extension tube.[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 4.jpg|center]]
 * 6) Have some sort of tripod. Depending on where you are, a regular tripod or a beanbag tripod will work.[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 5.jpg|center]]
 * 7) Unless you have some pretty strong daylight, you will need some type of light source. Here is a Sunpak flash with a macro diffuser attached.[[Image:Shoot 2_1 Macro Without a Macro Lens Step 6.jpg|center]]

Things You'll Need

 * Extension tubes
 * 50mm manual lens (used ones are great)
 * Reversing ring
 * Light source (Optional, but recommended)
 * Tripod or beanbag tripod

Related wikiHows

 * Make a Pringles Can Macro Diffuser
 * Make a Paper Macro Studio
 * Do Hand Held Macro Photography
 * Improve Your Macro Photography With a Macro Sized Light Box
 * Shoot Macro Photos
 * Determine Your Macro Magnification