Best Macro lens for...
 
Notifications
Clear all

Best Macro lens for Canon EOS R7?

7 Posts
8 Users
0 Reactions
1,187 Views
0
Topic starter

Getting into macro photography with my Canon EOS R7 and need lens recommendations. I'm interested in shooting insects, flowers, and small product work. The crop factor should give me extra reach, which seems beneficial for skittish subjects. I'm considering the RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS but wondering if the RF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM might be more practical for my budget and closer working distances. Also curious about third-party options like Sigma or Tamron. Working distance and image stabilization are important factors for me. What macro setup has worked best with your R7?


7 Answers
4

The dedicated RF macro lenses, 85mm, 100mm, 35mm F1.8. For native RF mount options on your R7, you've got several choices depending on your budget:

RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM - This is the flagship macro lens. I am looking at the RF 100mm F2.8L Macro and wondering if it is the preferred mid-range (haha) lens. It offers true 1:1 magnification and you will be able to do in camera focusing-stacking with these in the R7. Pricey but worth it if you're serious about macro work.

RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM - Another lens to consider is the RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM lens. It only does 1/2 life-size, so a subject that is 72mm x 48mm will fill the frame. It is great value as it is around half the price of the RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM lens. Perfect if you're just starting out in macro photography.

RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM - The first is the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM, which is tempting for a number of reasons. Though I am not sure I want to be THAT close to my subjects with this wide focal length, it's great for environmental macro shots.

The R7's crop factor actually works in your favor for macro - you get extra reach and magnification compared to full-frame!


4

Regarding what #5 said about "@Reply #2 - good point but honestly im..."

  • I am right there with you! I have been staring at my R7 for weeks trying to decide if I should just bite the bullet on the L-series or keep waiting. Its honestly so stressful trying to get the perfect setup without breaking the bank. I have been experimenting with a more DIY and budget approach lately and the results are amazing! Love the detail this crop sensor pulls. Here is what I am using while I stay indecisive:
  • I grabbed the Meike MK-RF-AF1 Metal Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube set. Its a fantastic way to turn any lens into a macro for cheap and it works perfectly with the R7 autofocus.
  • Picked up the 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 II Macro lens. Its fully manual which is a bit of a learning curve, but the optics are incredible for the price point.
  • Made a DIY diffuser using some packing foam and tape. Honestly, lighting matters way more than the lens for bugs anyway! It is such a fun challenge trying to make this work. Just keep playing around with it... you will find the sweet spot eventually!


3

Following


2

Love my RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM lens.


2

ngl if you're worried about reliability and how these actually feel in the hand, you should just check out some of the long term reviews on youtube or reddit. there's a ton of people who have done deep dives on exactly which ones stay sturdy after a year of use. just search for r7 macro setup and you'll find plenty of videos that show exactly how they perform and which ones feel the most solid. i was looking into this too but then i got distracted trying to find a decent strap for my r7. i bought one of those cheap ones last week and it basically started fraying after two days of hiking so now im back to square one. it is honestly so annoying when gear just doesnt last even when it looks okay in the photos. i guess you get what you pay for. anyway just check those youtube videos for the lens stuff.


2

@Reply #2 - good point but honestly im having the exact same struggle as you right now. been looking for the right macro glass for my R7 for like three months and i still havent bought anything because im so torn between brands. i keep looking at the Canon RF 100mm f2.8L Macro IS USM but then i start wondering if i should wait for third party options that might never come... it is honestly exhausting trying to weigh the pros and cons of adapting old glass vs going native. i just want something that works perfectly without a massive price tag but it feels like there is no clear answer yet.


1

Honestly, if you want the best bang for your buck without compromising on reliability, you should realy look at the older EF glass. People are offloading them for the RF versions, but there built like tanks and the optics are still incredible. - Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM - You can find these used for a steal right now. Since its a L-series lens, the weather sealing and build quality are top-tier, which is a big safety net when you're out in the weeds looking for bugs. It works perfectly with the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R on the R7. Tbh, the autofocus is still snappy and the IS is super reliable for handheld shots.
- Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO - If you dont mind manual focus (which is better for serious macro anyway), this thing is a beast. It gives you 2:1 magnification which is insane for the price. Its basically a solid chunk of metal and glass, very dependable.
- Stay away from the 35mm for insects - the working distance is just way to close and you'll end up shading your subject or scaring it off, you know? Buying a used EF 100L is a much safer bet than some of the realy cheap third-party options that might have wierd firmware glitches on the newer RF bodies. Plus, the money you save can go toward a good flash setup, which is definately needed for macro, right?


Share:
Forum.CanonRumors.CO is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.