

A 'true' macro image is shot at 1:1 magnification, which means that a photographed object will be reproduced on your camera's sensor at its real-life size. What is a macro lens?Īs I'm sure you probably already know, a macro lens allows you to shoot close-up images. There is a compromise though - unlike the Irix, the Sigma 150mm f/2.8 EZ DG OS HSM APO Macro doesn't have any weather sealing, which is a deal breaker for some. It's very competitive in terms of performance as well, clocking 29 on DXOMark and boasting up to four stops of image stabilization. Sigma's 150mm f/2.8 Macro lens is a similar price but does come with Sigma's Hypersonic Motor autofocus system. Irix aren't the only third-party manufacturer offering a little boost in focal length. If you're willing to put up with it's pitfalls, it's a great starter lens and the 60mm effective focal length does offer a lesser-seen wider perspective. However, the image quality is still very good, it weights a measly 235g and is just 65mm long and it's one of the cheapest ways into true macro photography. Nikon AF-S DX 40mm f/2.8G MicroĪ cheap and cheerful addition to the list of best macro lenses for Nikon, the DX 40mm f/2.8G offers a shorter working range, no internal focusing (meaning the lens barrel extends when at shorter focusing distance), no Vibration Reduction and a rather slow autofocus system.

#Best nikon macro lens for insects upgrade
If you're not planning an upgrade to full-frame anytime soon and don't mind an f/3.5 maximum aperture, this is a fantastic option. The internal focusing system means the barrel length remains the same, as with the 105mm above, and the 85mm f/3.5G VR Micro also boasts Extra-low Dispersion glass on the front element and 3-stop Vibration Reduction.īasically, it offers similar performance to the 105mm above, but at a smaller size and lower cost due to its DX design. It offers an equivalent focal length of around 120mm, providing a good working distance if you're trying to photograph insects or other moving subjects.

Nikon have a couple of excellent macro lenses designed specifically for DX (or cropped sensor) cameras, and this is the best of them if you ask me.
