Ugh, Im honestly so done with trying to force my kit lens to do macro work. Ive been trying to photograph these tiny moss samples for my biology project and it just wont focus no matter what I do, its driving me insane. I spent an hour yesterday just frustrated in my backyard in Seattle because the focus ring kept hunting and missing the detail I actually need. Im using a Canon 90D and I thought I could make it work but nope, the distortion is just awful.
I really need something that actually captures the texture properly. My budget is around 600 bucks tops since I still have to pay for school stuff, and I need to get this sorted within the next two weeks before my lab deadline. Should I just save up for the Canon 100mm L or is there something else that plays nice with the 90D crop sensor that wont break the bank? I dont want to deal with manual focus stacking if I can avoid it honestly, I just want something sharp that works when I need it to...
Honestly, if you want something reliable that wont drain your bank account, check out the Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD. I had some focus hunting issues with older third-party glass, but this one is solid on the 90D. It gives you enough working distance for moss without the distortion you're seeing on the kit lens. Its way cheaper than the L series and honestly just as sharp for school projects.
Honestly, grab the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM. It is insanely sharp for moss textures and fits your budget perfectly! You will love the results on your 90D.
> I dont want to deal with manual focus stacking How close do you need to get? You might prefer the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM instead for that extra working distance.
