Macro on the cheap. Macro lenses are expensive, but you don't need to buy one. [View all]

[alfredo]

Here's what I have done.

My first option is extension tubes. They have no electrical connection to the camera, so everything is manual.
You can pick them up for real cheap. I use them with my old manual lenses like a Yashinon DX. You will need an adaptor for the lens. Still very cheap. Be sure to buy one that fits your camera mount.



Another option is to turn your old lens around, converting it to a macro lens. You just find one that fits the filter ring and the mount on your lens and instant macro.



You can also place extension rings between the ring and the camera body for even more magnification.

Now you can get up real close. If you are troubled by the shake of the camera, use a tripod. I modified mine by making a shorter center stack so I can get lower to the ground.



If you want more precise focusing, look for focus rails. You can go cheap or top dollar.



If you want even less shake, use the shutter release timer or a remote shutter release.

If you work close to the ground, a kneeling pad is quite handy.



Remember, higher the magnification, the more pronounced the shake. You will notice you will have a very short depth of field, so go ahead and shoot at higher apertures like f16. I also carry a small LED flashlight to brighten the subject.

Handheld.