EX-25 Extension Tube

[mEasy27]

I wanna do some macro shooting, but as usual im cheap and dont wanna spend extra for another lense.. I was wondering if the ex-25 was compatible with the 14-42mm lens that came with my E-420. I've seen them for as low as $115 online which is a real bargain..

Edit:

Never mind I found my answer via the search button...

[Greg McCary]

I had the EX-25 for awhile and there is certainly a learning curve to one. You have to manual focus with one. Get a good tripod. The easiest way I found to focus was to get it close and adjust the focal length slightly instead of the focus ring. With a little practice the tube can be a great little tool. I got rid of mine when I upgraded to the 14-54mm. That lens was so good at macro I never used the tube.

[mEasy27]

Cool thanx.. I think im just gonna save up for the 14-54

[Sushigaijin]

I don't think the ex25 will work with the 14-42. Short focal lengths and tubes don't work well together - in fact, I'd be surprised if it is possible to focus under 40mm.

The 14-54 is a good lens (I had one), but it's no macro lens. If you're serious about macro at all, the ZD50 or the sigma 105 are better choices. The 14-54 is sharp and will focus close, but it just doesn't have the magnification necessary for macro work.

If you're still on a shoestring budget, get the 40-150 and the ex25. It's cheap and is reasonably sharp. I use the 50-200 with the ex25 more than any other lens and tube combo, although it's also useful with the zd50 for real macro magnification.

[Sushigaijin]

Here's a comparison I did when I had the 14-54. Note that these are maximum magnifications. You can see that the zd50 blows any of the other combos out of the water. However, the long zooms with the tube are great for shooting things that bite or sting because you have much longer working distance. The 50+tube working distance is measured in centimeters, but the zooms+tube can be measured in feet.

[Greg McCary]

There are some great deals on the 14-54mm on the used market. If you ever get one there ain't no going back. That is a sweet lens.

[bikefreax]

I just got my 14-54 and am loving it so far. I dont do macro with it but I did have luck with the EX-25 on the 40-150 and even have good luck macro with the 70-300mm. Have not tried the 50mm for macro yet but with it you dont get the distance.

[mEasy27]

I dont really do macro. I need something i can zoom farter with... My kids play sports and I wanna capture good exposures, but my lens just doesnt cut it when ur 100-150 feet away..

[mEasy27]

wow, i just looked on Amazon.com and the 40-150 is only $120. thats awesome..