If you are anything like me, you probably spend a lot of time researching before purchasing an important piece of equipment for your photography business. However, when I discovered these macro filters that I am about to introduce you to, I didn’t even blink before I purchased them online.
I mean, worst case scenario, I would spend $30 to give them a try. If I didn’t like them, I could simply return them. I mean… creative macro shots for less than $30? Yes, please! Don’t get me wrong here, they won’t replace a thousand dollar macro lens, but they will allow you to get creative and experiment with macro photography.
What you need to know before you buy!
SIZE
I am currently using my macro filters with my 50 mm lens. However, in order to make sure you purchase the correct size filters, you need to take a look at the inside of your lens cap to find out your lens size. My 50 mm lens requires a 58 mm filter. Make sure you know the correct size of the lens you want to use them with because they need to be an exact match.
What you need to know before you experiment:
APERTURE
Each of my 4 filters have a different magnification level (+1, +2, +4 and +10). Keep in mind that the higher the number, the more magnification your filter will create, and the lower the number, the less magnification your filter will create. If you are used to shooting wide open, you’ll have to rethink your whole process. Try shooting at f1.8, for example, and you won’t get anything in focus. Close down to f10 and you will notice the difference.
DISTANCE
If you think you are close enough to your subject, get even closer! Unless you get twice as close to your subject as you normally would, your pictures will turn out blurry… and it won’t be because you intentionally created a beautiful bokeh.
Are macro filters worth the investment? Absolutely! I love mine and they are sooo easy to use. If you ask me, attaching a macro filter to your lens is quicker and simpler than replacing the lens on your camera body. Let me know if you decide to explore macro photography by using macro filters. I would love to see how creative you can get!
Click here to shop my macro filter set!
*For your convenience, this post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting Alina Thomas Photography!
Thanks for this! I’ve actually been wondering if they’re worth it!
They are totally worth it, Hannah! Pretty inexpensive too.
Do you think these would do well on a 70-200 lens?
Shannon, I’m sure you could find some that would work on a 70-200 mm. You just need to search for the right size.
What a cool tutorial! thanks for sharing!
You are very welcome, Ruben. I am glad you found it helpful.
Great info… thank you! Very interesting…
You are very welcome, Conchita.
Great post! I love my macro filters, especially when I’m trying to keep my load light!!
I love them too, Chasity!
Great tips! I think they’re a great alternative if you haven’t got a dedicated macro lens.
That is true, Mercedes! While they don’t replace a dedicated macro lens, they are for sure a very affordable alternative to macro photography.
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Are you able to stack the filters and use more than one together?
Yes, you can :)
[…] How To Use Macro Filters […]
Thanks for the post. I will look into it. One question, magnification level do you use most often for ring shots?
Thanks
Hey Mariann, I normally use +10 and +4 to get the kind of shots I like. I hope this helps!
What macro filters are these? O:
Hannah, these are the ones I got:
Great info! Macro filters are the best! :)
You’re tempting me to get some of those filters! :P
Do it! You won’t regret it :)
LOVE macro filters! I’ve been using them for a few years now and they rock! Such an inexpensive alternative to a macro lens :)
Yasss!! I love them too!
Thanks for sharing! I actually have a couple of these that came with my lens and I haven’t stepped out of my comfort zone to try them, I think Ill have to change that now ;)
I’ve been wanting to try these out and you’ve convinced me!!