We have been having a blast teaching our online macro classes, who knew virtual learning could be so much fun? Each session we introduce new shooting techniques, discuss editing tips specific to macro, and review everyone’s photos. A lot of discussion has come up on gear, and I wanted to post this for all the Nikon Z camera users out there.
Right now there is no native Z macro lens. You have two choices….use the FTZ adapter with a DSLR macro lens, or buy an extension tube for a native Z mount lens. I love having the ability to shoot macro on trips, but I don’t like carrying a dedicated macro lens unless I am shooting a lot of macro.. This is where using an extension tube is terrific. I might go for a hike with my lightweight Z6 and 24-70mm F4, and see a flower along the way I want to photograph up close. This is the perfect reason to carry a lightweight extension tube. I purchased the FotoDiox 35mm Z mount tube (see picture above). It attaches between the camera and lens, and allows me almost 1 to 1 reproduction using my kit F4 24-70mm lens. You lose a stop of light, but maintain the incredible optical quality of the Z mount lens. I tried the tube on a variety of Z mount lenses, but got the best results with both F2.8 and F4 24-70mm lenses. The extension tube costs about $80, and is a great way to transform your Z system into a macro set up. One technical point…you have to be very close to get focus using the extension tube. I was about 2 inches from my subject before I established focus. But it works great!
We have been getting a number of people asking about another online macro class. Since our first two sold out quickly, we are doing another one. We just posted our next class in June.