16 replies to this topic

[AntsTexas]

price range: $200 to $400 maybe $450

 

 

here is the one i'm looking at

 

http://www.bestbuy.c...4&skuId=4470028

 

 

 

any help would b thankfull! 

[Chromerust]

I've done my homework and the Nikon 3300 is the best entry level DSLR in that price range. You won't be disappointed. Check Amazon for the best deal. The Samsung mirrorless would be my next choice but I think those are more. consider used on CL and save a ton. You'll probably score extra lenses and other gear included too.

[AntsTexas]

thanks!

[dspdrew]

Too bad nurbs never comes around anymore. He's a professional photographer and knows a lot about DSLR's.

[dean_k]

Along with a DSLR, you will need a focus lens which is also called Macro lens.

 

I recommend this one.

 

http://www.amazon.ca...ailpage_o04_s00

 

Basically, get an entry level DSLR and get a macro lens and you will be good to go. A tripod is handy but completely optional.

[Gregory2455]

http://www.bestbuy.c...4&skuId=4470028

That is like the camera of my dreams...

[AntsTexas]

Along with a DSLR, you will need a focus lens which is also called Macro lens.

 

I recommend this one.

 

http://www.amazon.ca...ailpage_o04_s00

 

Basically, get an entry level DSLR and get a macro lens and you will be good to go. A tripod is handy but completely optional.

thanks!! did not know i needed something like this 2 take ant pics....

[dspdrew]

You can use extension tubes too.

[AntsTexas]

 got my new camera:

 

http://www.bestbuy.c...7&skuId=1004002

 

what r extension tubes??

[cpman]

Extension tubes are simply things that move a lens further from the sensor, thereby causing a larger image to be projected onto the sensor. This causes higher magnification.

[NorthEdge]

I use a 50mm lens with extension tubes. Cheaper than any dedicated macro lens by far.

 

http://www.amazon.co...ords=canon 50mm

 

If you spend an extra ~$35 you can get this new 40mm lens. Its far more compact than my 50mm and can get better magnification.

 

http://www.amazon.co...ords=canon 40mm

 

For extension tubes brand doesn't really matter as long as its made for a canon. The more expensive ones are made with higher quality materials but it won't affect picture quality.

 

http://www.amazon.co... extension tube

 

I took these pictures with the 50mm and extension tubes. This setup can be used to get descent pictures of ants as small as Tetramorium and you'll also be able to make videos unlike my now 8 year old camera.

[AntsTexas]

cool, thanks everyone for the help! 

[Ants4fun]

Another cool idea for lighting is getting this led macro ring light, for $35 it looks like a nice deal.
http://www.amazon.co...i=AC_SY200_QL40

[nurbs]

Too bad nurbs never comes around anymore. He's a professional photographer and knows a lot about DSLR's.

 

Here now... looks like he got his question answered? Sorry for the delay

[Barristan]

Superzoom cameras are also quite good for taking macro shots of ants. I sold my DSLR in 2013 and bought a super zoom camera instead and can take quite decent macro images with it.

 

I took these pictures with a Canon Powershot SX 50 HS + Raynox DCR-250 closeup lense (using flash):

 

 

The advantages of a superzoom camera is the high magnification you can achieve with a close-up lense.

 

Edited by Barristan, June 8 2015 - 5:57 AM.

[dspdrew]

Wow, that camera does take nice pictures.

[BugFinder]

 

http://www.bestbuy.c...4&skuId=4470028

That is like the camera of my dreams...

 

Here is the camera of my dreams!!  http://www.amazon.co...o/dp/B00IMOB5SW