So you want to take more detailed photos, but don't have the budget to spend a few hundred dollars on a brand new macro lens. My answer for you? Invest in some Macro Filters! You seriously won't regret it. Let's get into some of the basics... what in the world are macro filters and what do they do?
Macro filters are filters that screw onto the front of your lens and to simplify it, act like little magnifying glasses for your camera. They allow you to take those stunning detailed shots, like capturing the tiniest details of a flower petal, or the indents on a sparkling diamond ring. When you place the filters between your subject and your lens, it also creates a more dramatic depth of field which is amazing when it comes to macro photography. Not only are they cost friendly, but also insanely useful when it comes to product or commercial photography, for detailed shots while shooting weddings, or even in experimentation with nature shots.
More advantages of macro filters? The filters are very compact and won't take up as much space as a regular lens in your camera bag. Most filters even come with a nice carrying and protective case that you can keep them in. Like I said, they're an insanely inexpensive way to dive into macro photography and achieve great results. When I say inexpensive, I mean you can actually go online, right now, and buy a set of macro filters for UNDER $9. The cost will depend on the size of the lens you'd like to attach it to, but Vivitar sells great sets on Amazon for shocking prices. I use a set from Vivitar that I received when purchasing my camera, which I attach to my Canon RF 24-240. Boy am I in love with them. Hoya also sells amazing quality filters, as do big manufacturers like Canon and Nikon, but a more costly price of course. If you're hoping to experiment and get a feel for macro photography, I'd suggest trying out Vivitar's first.
Shot for Lilienthal Berlin using my Vivitar Lens Kit.
I personally chose to experiment with these filters a while ago, and haven't put them away since. I've used my macro close up kit when photographing wedding rings, in my product photography while working with clients, and even just for the fun of it when I'm bored! Take a look at the magnification powers that these little babies have when used on camera, in comparison to how the scene really looks:
Before adding some new gear to your collection, you should know that macro lens filters cannot be used for non-macro photography. These can only be used to focus on an object that is close to your camera. If you do otherwise, you'll see a big blurry mess through your viewfinder. At the price that they're selling at though, in my opinion, it's well worth the cost.
Thanks for the read!
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