Lens advice

[Roo]

Hi all

I'm about to pull the trigger on getting a 5D3 and was thinking about a lens or 2 to go with it. I currently have a 60d and an 1100d with ef-s18-55, 50-250, Tamron 17-50 f2.8, Canon 70-200 f2.8 and Sigma 150-500 lenses. I currently shoot just about anything but portraits aren't a preference.

I'm going to sell the 1100 and the 2 ef-s lenses but keep the rest because it's handy to have a second body at some events and the 60d swivel screen does come in handy. Even though the 17-50 won't fit the 5D3, its still a very good lens.

The lenses I was thinking of are the 24-105 f4 and the Tamron 90 f2.8 Macro. A friend suggested the Tamron as a very good budget macro and the reviews I've read are positive but could I get away with just using the 24-105 as a macro?

 

[neuroanatomist]

...could I get away with just using the 24-105 as a macro?

Depends on how you define 'macro'. The maximum magnification of the 24-105L is 0.23x, so it's quite suitable for flowers, etc., although I'd call that 'close up' and not macro shooting.

 

[GmwDarkroom]

If you want a full 1:1 magnification macro in the price range of the 90mm Tamron, why not look for a 100mm non-L Canon macro? The refurbs are good deals and the lens can be had used for less than the Tamron.

I agree you could do close ups with the 24-105 -- just as I do with my 15-85 -- but you will enjoy the IQ of a macro lens more. However many people don't want to take the time to break out the tripod, wait for the wind to stop blowing, and patiently take true macro shots. If this is not you, I think you'll be happier with "close ups". Hand held macro range shots with the non-L are rarely keepers.

 

[Roo]

Thanks Neuro and Gmw! You're right, I do want to get closer than close up so the 24-105 won't be enough. I have a perfect place for some bee shots and I'm itching to take some!

I checked out the Canon 100 non L at your suggestion but looking at the reviews, blogs etc I don't think I can justify the extra $220 or so over the top of the Tamron. Unfortunately used versions here seem to be going for the same price or more here.