close-up lens

[T.S128]

Beiong bored at school I get to read a lot about camera's and different things. One I came across are the close-up lenses. Are these a good investment to make? because I don't have enough to buy a macro lens. Do they make much of a difference? And if so what size lens would one like me want to put it on. a 35-80 or 75-300. I can definently afford one of these, do you think it would be worth the money?

Thanks

[Steve Foss]

Tim, they help a lot. Image quality is excellent on the Canon close-up lenses (I assume you mean the ones that mount on the front lens thread). If you use them, you lose distant focus when they are on, and you should compose a little loosely because the image can be a little soft around the edges.

I don't know the diameter of the front of your 35-80, but I believe your telephoto zoom is 58mm. If both diameters are 58mm you can buy the 58mm close-up lens and use it on either. If the lenses have different front diameters, I'd recommend buying the one to fit the stronger zoom, as you'll likely get more of a macro punch out of that lens.

[T.S128]

ok thanks a lot. I believe the 35-80 is a 52mm and you are right about the 58mm. I don't have my camera here so Im not positive. Maybe I will look into one of these.

I also am sending you an email about a different topic...