Macro Lenses! Advice needed

T

TechHead

Forerunner
As above, which one would you guys recommend?

I already have a 100mm f/4 manual focus Pentax M Macro on the way, but it is only 1:2 magnification.

I am getting good deals on a D FA 50mm f/2.8 (1:1 magnification), and a Sigma 105mm f/2.8 (1:1). Both these new lenses are AF as well, and make good portrait lenses.

However, to throw a spanner into the works, there is a good Vivitar 2X Macro TC out on eBay for 20$. Attached to my 50mm f/1.4 lens, it makes it into a 1:1 macro 100mm f/2.8 lens. Good reports for this out on PentaxForums and FM.

Decisions,decisions! The D FA and Sigma lenses will run me ~ 300USD each.
 
One of my friends got the sigma 105 - its pretty good. The working distance with the 105 will be better than the 50mm, so that's the one you should consider.

Edit : Also note, that you won't be using AF much with macro. At close focussing distances, what matters is the steadiness and the point of focus. Focussing manually gives you better control in those situations.
 
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