Macro Tubes and their Significance for Close-up Photography
Macro tubes are nothing but simple hollow tubes that sit between the camera film and the lens and are designed to take close-up pictures. These tubes increase the distance between the camera sensor and the lens and allow the lens to focus closer than its normal focusing range. They usually come in a set of three lengths; 12mm, 20/25mm, and 36mm.You can use any one, any two or all three to get the magnification you want. The longer the combination, the higher will be the enlargement. When used appropriately, you can conveniently reach the 1:1 magnification point.
When you move the lens away from the center, the light rays spread out, producing a larger image on the camera sensor/film. The best part of using macro extension tubes is that they do not deteriorate the quality of image; however, there will be a loss of light. The more extension you choose, the lesser will be the amount of light reaching the camera sensor. To handle this issue, you can use a TTL or through-the-lens metering to automatically adjust the exposure.
These aluminum tubes can either be manual or auto-focus, depending on the type you choose. Not every tube can be used with any camera. They are very specific to a particular brand or even a model. If you have a Canon camera, you must buy a Canon macro extension Tube, which may not work with a Sony camera and vice-versa. Therefore, always buy a macro tube that is compatible with your shooting equipment.
Extension tubes are cheaper alternatives to the macro lenses. Choose them to have a wonderful experience of taking life-size pictures.
