Can extension tubes be combined with magnifying filters?

JohnPaulPatton

Until I have the cash to buy a good macro lens, I am using magnifying filters to capture the effect. Wondering whether to also buy extension tubes? Thanks!

robbo

Yes, you can combine the two, though you might not see much difference. Extension tubes are a bit more efficient than extra lenses/filters as theres no extra glass to cut down the light or cause problems with quality.

I would get the simple variety. They don't have any linkages and you will have to open the aperture manually. I use a bit of blue tack to keep the diaphragm tab open. If you do that, don't forget to remove the blue tack when you're done!

Another possibility is a lens reversing ring, quite cheap as well. It lets you attach a lens the wrong way around to provide a good macro magnification. Again, you have to keep the aperture open somehow. Have fun!

JohnPaulPatton

@Robbo - Thanks for your feedback, it's much appreciated. Yes, I have also considered the reversing ring too. I might just run with that if the tubes don't make much difference with the magnifying filters. Cheers!