[Guest]

So on a zoom lens that has macro capability, how exactly do you use the macro feature? Does it only operate and one extreme of the lens or is it "macro" through its entire zoom range?

 

I was thinking that you set it to it's shortest zoom range and actually move the camera in and out from the subject.

 

Thanks,

Rut

as popo said, it varies with the lens. Many 'close-up' capable zoom lenses just have a rather close focusing distance. So, for example, a lens may have a minimal focus distance (from the sensor) of 30cm. If you zoom it to the maximal tele position, it gives you the highest magnification. This is how for example the Sigma 17-70 lens works, but then at max magnification, you are like a few mms from the front of the lens...

There are also lenses with a special macro setting. E.g. the old FD 70-210mm had that. You set it at 70mm, and turn it into a special macro position, which shifts internal elements. You can then go closer, but sort of in a wide-angle position.

There is also the recent Canon 24-70 f4.0 IS lens, which has a special macro position, again, you are very close to the front lens.

On many P&S cameras, the special macro engages at the wide-angle - but often it's automatic, so you don't really realize what's going on. On some P&S cameras, you have to test yourself at what focal length/ minimal focus distance you get the maximal magnification, i.e. while the closest focusing distance is at the wide-angle (the "1cm" from the front magnification advertised often), a higher magnification can be achieved by zooming in, even though the minimal distance is larger. So, on a Sony HX5, highest magnification is at about 2.6x (60mm FF equiv.)

 

Anyway, if you look further down, there are some lenses with close-up abilities listed in the pseudo-macro section:

http://photonius.wikispaces.com/Close-up+%26+Macro

It lists also different magnifications achieved at wide-angle for some lenses and P&S cameras.