can I use a Macro lense just like a 'regular' lense?

[andylawcc]

i just finished reading wiki's explanation of a Macro lense http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macro_lens. Correct me if I am wrong, a lense can be only considered a maco if it has at least 1:1 magnification.

Now, my question is, won't a Macro lens make perfect sense for Portraits? Or any type of photography that doesn't require a large DOF?

 

[OdiN]

I absolutely love my Canon 100mm macro for portraits - mainly headshot type ones.

It's a great portrait lens. Especially since it has such fine adjustment of focus.

But then I also really like the 50mm f/1.4 for portraits.

 

[angry hampster]

The only bad thing about macro lenses at telephoto (or standard) length is that they autofocus slower than most others. If you can put up with this, macro lenses are fantastic for day-to-day stuff. Hell, I shot an air show with my Sigma 150 Macro:

http://img.photobucket.com/alb.../artistic/airshow1.jpg

 

[Anubis]

as others have said yes you can, AF is just sometimes slow

Nikon 105
http://www.rootminus1.com/free...ms/Random/DSC_4606.jpg

 

[ZOXXO]

Good info guys. I know the true macro lenses enjoy a reputation for sharpness but have never read/heard the slower than non-macro equivalents axiom.

Could factor into future purchase decisions.

 

[angry hampster]

Frankly the focus speed isn't that big of a deal, but make sure you get a lens with a focus limiter switch. My sigma had one with three settings: 1) 1:1->1m, 2) 1m->infinity, 3) full

As long as I didn't have the limiter set to full, it would be perfectly usable in day-to-day stuff, especially outside. Color representation and out of focus areas looked better with my Sigma than any lens I've ever owned, including my L-series Canons. I really wish I hadn't have sold that lens. Highly recommend getting one if you're considering a macro.

More samples:
http://img.photobucket.com/alb...er/artistic/pride1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/alb.../artistic/bugjune1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/alb...tic/harleycalendar.jpg

 

[ghostman]

I've been considering selling my Canon 70-200mm F4L to get the Sigma 150mm macro. I enjoy taking macros once in a while and the F/2.8 on the sigma could be helpful for indoor portrait shots. My main concern really was the focusing speed. Hmm...