Get in closer
It’s an unusual time in the lens market, thanks to the ongoing transition from DSLR to mirrorless technology. The choice for DSLR users is shrinking rapidly, and many of the macro optics we’d have recommended two or three years ago are no longer on sale. But this hasn’t yet been reflected in an explosion in options for mirrorless users, with most of the third-party makers still to produce lenses in Canon and Nikon’s new full-frame mounts. However, there’s still some good news for close-up photographers, thanks to the emergence of Venus Optics as a genuinely high-class lens maker. It produces an array of innovative manual-focus macro optics in its Laowa line-up that go way beyond offering just life-size magnification. Sigma still offers affordable but high-quality alternatives for the main lens mounts, too.
Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro STM
● £287 ● www.canon.co.uk
One of the most unusual macro lenses available, this optic offers an angle of view equivalent to 45mm on full frame. Its standard focusing range provides life-size magnification, but engaging Super Macro mode extends this even closer to 1.2x. At this point the image area is just 18.6mm x 12.4mm, and the subject a matter of millimetres from the front element. Normally this would cause problems with lighting, so Canon has included a small LED ring light around the front element. Despite this, the lens is a mere 46mm long and tips the scales at just 130g, so it won’t take up much room in your bag.
Nikon Z MC 50mm f/2.8
● £649 ● www.nikon.co.uk
Nikon announced two
