Diptera.info

Posted by crex on 25-06-2006 14:11

I have ordered a Canon EOS 30D several weeks ago, but Canon seems to have trouble delivering cameras ... Well, back to the subject. I also ordered a Sigma 150mm macro and I'm wondering about the need for a tripod etc. I have a good tripod and video head, but I'm not sure if it is suitable for insect photography. Perhaps it would be better with just a monopod? That would at least be faster. I'm also not sure if I can shoot freehand with 150mm and a flash ... Any thoughts on this subject? If I should get a flash. What's best for 30D and a 150mm lens.

Posted by elck on 25-06-2006 16:42

A monopod works very well, as you tend to adjust the last mm by moving the camera closer to the object.
Also a monopod gives you much more freedom.
However, make sure the monopod has a ballhead else it is unusable.

With my 150mm I rather use my 580ex (with extension cord and bracket) than my sigma macroringflash although the letter is quite usable too. It depends on the subject: odonata: 580ex, tiny flies sigma em-140 dg

Posted by crex on 26-06-2006 15:23

Thanx for the input. What shutter time does one get with a flash like Sigma EM-140 DG Ring Flash (or if there is newer model)? Enough for shooting without a monopod even? It was a really long time since I used a flash ... :)

Posted by LordV on 13-08-2006 09:57

Hi, WRT to shutter speed- you are normally limited to the x-sync speed of the camera at 1/200th or 1/250th, but of course the flash duration is normally much shorter than that.

As an aside you'll see from this thread that I find a bean pole much easier to use than even a monopod but perhaps a bit harder to transport :)
http://www.diptera.info/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=21&thread_id=1836
Brian V.

Edited by LordV on 13-08-2006 10:28

Posted by Nikita Vikhrev on 13-08-2006 10:44

I can't image how to use tripod for life pictures of insecta. Neither few possible to get good result with free hands. I use camera bag as tripod or anything else to put the camera.
Nikita