OK I got a chance to get into the back yard for about 30 minutes this afternoon after work before I had to head out to a meeting. Buckled the 80-200mm on and added one tube just to see what it would do. First thing I found out is I'm just not steady enough anymore to hand hold that long a lens at close range. (It's called age guys.) At any rate screwed it to the monopod and tried some more. Here are a few of the results.

I did find a few flowers without bugs as well. These were shot with the same setup.

These are all beautiful OT, I can't pick a favorite! I think that I'll come view this thread whenever I'm feeling stressed. :)

These are great! Are they all full frame(the fly)?

Nice work, OT!

I know it's probably too early to get a good feel of using that setup, but what are your initial thoughts of the flexibility of the rig as compared to your dedicated macro lens?

All good shots OT :)

BTW i think you have a Ant problem :D

Gorgeous shots OT, love the rose! and the colour blue in the 7th image is stunning. Great series.:thumbsup:

These are great! Are they all full frame(the fly)?


Paul since starting to shot digital I have learned to shoot everything a little loose. With slides I was always a fill the frame guy/crop in the camera. So the answer to the question, no all are cropped to some degree. The image you refer to is the one that got the biggest crop, maybe 50%. I was using the 80-200mm with 36mm tube on this one.

Bevb, Kristen and Knight thanks for the very kind words. I still have a long ways to go but I like this setup and I think it can be usefull. Now if I can just learn a little more about comp and exposure I'll be on my way.

Nice work, OT!

I know it's probably too early to get a good feel of using that setup, but what are your initial thoughts of the flexibility of the rig as compared to your dedicated macro lens?

I think it is way to early to make a statement that I can stand behind. I will say that I like the flexability of the setup a lot. With my manuels I didn't have a dedicated macro lens so I used the 43-86mm with a reversing ring a lot. I loved that setup. This reminds me lot of that, but with a lot more weight. If I can find a fault it's going to be the weight of the rig. I do have to say though that I still love the 105 Macro with or with out the tubes.

Yeah I here that because I need to learn to shoot wider for some subjects(people). With wildlife I am usually not close enough, so it's a hard habit to get into.

Some very good shots there, OT. Don't worry, you aren't the only one witht the age problem. :D :p I think I have finally come to the conclusion if I am using my 2x, I need to have it on the tripod.

Paul, I have to pick the film up this evening, but finally got some pics of some local buzzards. Getting ready to on vacation so will try to post them some time.

Some very good shots there, OT. Don't worry, you aren't the only one witht the age problem. :D :p I think I have finally come to the conclusion if I am using my 2x, I need to have it on the tripod.

Paul, I have to pick the film up this evening, but finally got some pics of some local buzzards. Getting ready to on vacation so will try to post them some time.

Nice to hear from you again. Hope you post some of those pictures soon.

Wonderful images, as always OT. My fav is still the easter lily.