Im getting so frustrated trying to pick a macro lens for my Canon R50. I really want to start taking photos of flowers and tiny insects in my garden before spring fully kicks off here in Oregon, but the crop sensor aspect is driving me crazy. I looked at the RF 35mm f/1.8, and some people online swear by it for close-ups, but then others say its not a true macro lens since it doesnt do 1:1 magnification. My logic was maybe I should just get the RF-S 18-45mm and call it a day, but that definitely wont give me the detail I want. Then I saw a bunch of people recommending the Laowa 65mm 2x macro, which sounds amazing, but its manual focus only and that scares me a bit since Im still learning. Does the lack of autofocus on the Laowa make it impossible for handheld shots? My budget is around 500 bucks max, and I feel like Im running out of time to get something before the weather clears up. Is it worth stretching for a pricier native lens or should I just commit to manual and save the cash...
To add to the point above: you really dont need autofocus for macro. When youre that close, just set your focus and move your body slightly to nail the shot. If you want to save money, check out the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM. It has AF and gives you solid magnification.
- It helps with stabilization
- Sharp enough for insects
- Works great as a portrait lens too
Stumbled upon this discussion and honestly, dont overthink the autofocus thing. In my experience with shooting bugs in the garden, autofocus is mostly a nuisance once you get to high magnification because the plane of focus is razor thin. You end up relying on rocking your camera back and forth anyway. If you want the best results without breaking the bank, here is how I view your options:
- Venus Optics Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO: This is the gold standard for crop sensors. That 2x magnification lets you capture details that normal lenses just cant reach. Yes, it is manual focus, but the focus throw is so smooth that it makes learning very forgiving.
- Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM: This is a great walk-around lens, but it is not a true macro. It has a decent close-focusing distance, but for insects, you will have to get uncomfortably close to your subject. It is better for flowers than it is for skittish bugs. Honestly, the Laowa is worth the effort to learn manual focus. You get 2x magnification which is insane for the price compared to native Canon glass. Just commit to it, grab a decent speedlite if you need more light for handheld shots, and you will see a massive difference in your garden photos. The 65mm focal length is perfect for keeping enough distance so you dont spook the insects.
Honestly, ditch the kit lens idea if you actually care about detail. The 18-45mm will just leave you wanting more every time. Regarding the manual focus thing, dont let it intimidate you too much. Macro photography is almost always a manual game anyway because autofocus hunts like crazy when you get that close. Using a lens like the one from Laowa is a total game changer for the magnification you get. It might be tricky for bugs at first, but with a bit of practice, you will get the hang of it. Just be careful with your shutter speed because shaky hands will ruin those shots fast. I would suggest grabbing a sturdy tripod if you can manage it. Honestly, go with something from Laowa or maybe a used Canon prime if you can find a deal. You got this.
