Turning an 800mm into a MACRO lens?

[Dean Wilson]

My FD 800mm lens minimum focusing distance is about 552 inches. I thought...but what if the subject was closer? So...

I added 29mm (11mm + 18mm) extension tubes to the setup and measured the new minimum focusing distance (about 338 inches):

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As you can see by the photo it is much, much closer than 552" away.

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So now I can capture epic shots like there where previously I would have had to open the front door and walked back into the living room.

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I'm thinking a few more extension tubes and I can photograph a Bees Butt on a Butterfly Bush.

 

[Grumps]

Each extension tube reduces the light landing on the sensor (or the film, in old money). I can revise the maths (if you don't trust me)

Given the (required?) high ISO and long exposure, how much chilling was you thinking a bee would require to stay still long enough to photograph its butt?

 

[Dean Wilson]

I'm going to need bigger Bees!