Kenko Extension Tubes

I’ve previously mentioned that one of the more reasonable ways to add a macro capability to a SLR is through the use of extension tubes.

Extension tubes work by reducing the minimum focus distance of the lens, allowing you to get closer to your subject and still be in focus. This can sometimes be a bit of a disadvantage with things that notice you coming, such as insects!

Recently, I decided to take a look at some of the options available for my Canon Digital SLR. Canon make a 12mm and 25mm tube, however, another Japanese company, Kenko, make sets for most of the major lens mounts; and they are well worth looking at.

I did briefly consider the Canon, but only very briefly, the Kenko set offers more flexibility for around the same cash as one of the Canon tubes.

The set contains 12, 20 and 36mm tubes which can be connected together to give an enormous 68 mm extension, used alone or in combination. Extreme close ups here we come!

Playing around with them, (I mounted the new 50mm lens on top) you soon realise that depth of field is pretty heavily reduced, but they are fantastic fun. They do make for a slightly darker image when reading from the camera’s meter. So, to compensate, you might lower the shutter speed, or use the bracketing function of your camera to get a nicely lit shot.

On the whole if you’re interested in taking some macro shots, and you don’t want to splash out on a dedicated lens, they’re a good option. One word of warning though some lenses may not fit or indeed work, for example the standard 18-55mm lens which comes with the consumer Canon SLRs won’t. Lenses with lower focal lengths (below 35mm) may not focus at all, even though they fit the arrangement, since the focal distance is so reduced.

Treat yourself to the 50mm lens mentioned previously instead. They’re a great combination, and the variety of shots you can make with them is amazing (Not just macro).