I am enjoying trying Macro with my 105mm 2.8 d lens, close up I find autofocus is terrible and have to resort to manual. Secondly, for lighting I am using a Sb-900 TTL with both exposure and flash compensation set at times up to -3.0 with the diffuser and fresnel in place.

1. From what I have read going to manual focus is normal for macro lenses when very close up. I am assuming there is little to be gained by moving to the new 105mm. I stand to be corrected by those who have used both.

2. Would I be just as well off adding more diffusion or should I save up for the R1. I looked at using using my two SB 900's with Kirk macro arms but this would be really unwieldy and very heavy.

Currently using a D300, adding a D800 sometime soon.

Grateful any views.
While I have not yet posted any macro shots have a look at my website:
link: www.rakmilphotography.com

I find that my 105 VR autofocuses just fine for macro almost all the time.

I have the R1C1 unit as well as an SB800. For distances of 1 1/2 meter or less the R1C1 is the way to go (I put aftermarket diffusers on the SB200 units). At a greater distance the 800 / 900 is preferable for me.

I use my D300 almost all the time for macro because i like the Dx "crop factor" the only time I use my D700 for macro is low light situations.

Philip

Do not settle for mediocrity. Rather strive for excellence for even in that attempt lies a measure of success.

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Thanks. Food for thought.

VR