Best Mirrorless Camera and Lens for Under $3500 Budget Macro Photography
Macro photography allows you to capture the intricate details of objects in stunning clarity. However, finding the perfect setup within a $3500 budget can be challenging. In this article, we will explore the best options for mirrorless cameras and lenses that will meet your needs without breaking the bank.
Canon EOS M5 EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit ($1100)
The Canon EOS M5 with EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit is a great choice for those starting their journey in macro photography. It boast a MILC (Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera) design from one of the most reputable camera brands. Despite its lower price point, it is a reliable option for those needing a versatile lens for various shooting scenarios.
Alternative: Sony Alpha a6300
For a slightly higher performance, the Sony Alpha a6300 is an excellent alternative. It offers a higher resolution sensor and better low-light performance compared to the Canon EOS M5. The a6300's sensor has low pass filter cancellation, making it a tad sharper for macro photography. This camera is best suited for those who prioritize image quality and flexibility over a slightly higher price point.
Yongnuo EF-E to NEX E-Mount Adapter
When using the Sony Alpha a6300, it's important to consider the Yongnuo EF-E to NEX E-Mount Adapter for mounting Canon lenses. This adapter is usually a safe and reliable choice. However, if image quality is a top priority, it's advisable to avoid cheap adapters with no electrical contacts like the Fotasy EF Lens to Sony E-Mount. These adapters may not perform as well in high-resolution modes and can interfere with exposure and focusing.
Canon Lenses Review
For those who prioritize macro photography, consider the following Canon lenses:
Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5X Macro Lens
The Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5X Macro Lens is a powerful tool for high magnification macro photography. It allows for magnification up to 5x, which is ideal for tabletops or very slow-moving subjects. However, it can be challenging to focus and may require additional lighting, such as flash to achieve optimal results with live subjects. For this lens, it is highly recommended to use diffused flash lighting to achieve the best results.
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Lens
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Lens is a top-of-the-line option for general-purpose macro photography. It provides a good balance between performance and cost, offering 1x magnification and features image stabilization (IS) and good autofocus (AF). For most macro shots, manual focusing is recommended, but the autofocus is still useful for portraits and larger subjects.
Sigma 150mm f/2.8 AF APO EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens
For a more specialized lens, the Sigma 150mm f/2.8 AF APO EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens is an excellent choice. It offers similar macro capabilities to the Canon 100mm offerings but with better reach, making it ideal for capturing subjects that are more difficult to approach, such as insects. While the autofocus on this lens is not as good as on the Canon, the increased distance from the subject makes it invaluable for capturing timid subjects.
Sony SEL90M28G FE 90mm f/2.8-22 Macro G OSS Lens
If you prefer a Sony body, the Sony SEL90M28G FE 90mm f/2.8-22 Macro G OSS Lens is a versatile option. While it still provides good macro capabilities, it may not be as suitable for extreme close-up work due to its lower magnification of 1x. However, its design makes it an excellent choice for general-purpose macro photography.
Conclusion
When choosing the best mirrorless camera and lens for macro photography within a budget of $3500, it is essential to consider your specific needs and usage. Whether you opt for the versatile Canon EOS M5 or the more advanced Sony Alpha a6300, both offer excellent options for capturing detailed macro images. Additionally, lenses like the Canon MP-E 65mm, Canon 100mm, Sigma 150mm, and Sony 90mm provide the necessary magnification and features to make your macro photography a success.