Macro 1:1
Macro lenses that achieve a 1:1 magnification ratio are a marvel in the world of photography, allowing you to capture the minutest details as life-size images on the camera sensor. Understanding what constitutes a 1:1 macro lens and the common misconceptions around it can enhance your macro photography journey.
What Does 1:1 Macro Mean?
A 1:1 macro lens is capable of reproducing subjects on your camera's sensor at actual size. In other words, something 1cm long in real life will appear as 1cm on the sensor. This true-to-life magnification is a hallmark of macro photography, allowing for detailed and close-up images with stunning clarity.
Understanding Macro Magnification Ratios
Lenses that don't reach 1:1 magnification may still be labeled as macro, but they will not render subjects at full life-size on the sensor. For instance, a lens with a 1:2 ratio will produce an image half the size of the subject. While still suitable for close-up photography, the level of detail may not match that of a 1:1 macro lens.
Common Misconceptions About Macro Lenses
It's often thought that macro capabilities are solely within the domain of telephoto lenses. However, macro photography can be achieved across a range of focal lengths. Wide-angle macro lenses allow for close-up shots with expansive backgrounds, while standard focal lengths can be used for macro work when paired with accessories like extension tubes to reach closer magnification ratios.
The Impact of Focal Length on Macro Photography
The focal length of a macro lens affects more than just magnification. Telephoto macro lenses, often ranging from 90mm to 105mm, provide a greater working distance between the lens and the subject, which can be beneficial when photographing skittish wildlife. On the other hand, wide-angle macros invite you to get close to the subject, offering an environmental context to the detailed shot.
Conclusion
Macro lenses with 1:1 magnification ratios open up a world of detail and creativity in photography. They allow photographers to portray the smallest subjects with life-size realism. Regardless of the lens brand or focal length, achieving 1:1 magnification can reveal the intricate textures and forms often invisible to the naked eye.
All lenses that are true Macro 1:1
Here is a complete list of all lenses that are Macro 1:1.
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Canon EF 100mm F2.8 L IS USM Macro
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Canon EF 100mm F2.8 USM Macro
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Canon EF 180mm F3.5 L Macro USM
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Canon EF-M 28mm F3.5 Macro IS STM
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Canon EF-S 35mm F2.8 Macro IS STM
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Canon EF-S 60mm F2.8 USM Macro
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Canon MP-E65mm F2.8 1-5x
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Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM
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Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM
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Fujifilm XF 30mm F2.8 R LM WR
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Fujifilm XF 80mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro
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Nikon AF 105mm F2.8 D Micro-Nikkor
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Nikon AF 200mm F4 ED-IF Micro
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Nikon AF 60mm F2.8 D Micro
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Nikon AF-S 105mm F2.8 G IF-ED Micro-Nikkor VR
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Nikon AF-S 60mm F2.8 G ED Micro
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Nikon AF-S DX 40mm F2.8 G Micro
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Nikon AF-S DX 85mm F3.5 G ED Micro VR
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Nikon Z MC 105mm F2.8 VR S
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Nikon Z MC 50mm F2.8
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Sigma EX 105mm F2.8 DG Macro
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Sigma EX 150mm F2.8 DG HSM APO Macro
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Sigma EX 150mm F2.8 DG OS HSM APO Macro
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Sigma EX 180mm F2.8 HSM OS DG Macro
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Sigma EX 180mm F3.5 HSM DG Macro
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Sigma EX 50mm F2.8 DG Macro
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Sigma EX 70mm F2.8 DG Macro
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Sony 100mm F2.8 Macro
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Sony 50mm F2.8 Macro
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Sony DT 30mm F2.8 Macro SAM
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Sony E 30mm F3.5 Macro
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Sony FE 50mm F2.8 Macro
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Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
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Tamron SP AF 180mm F3.5 Di LD IF Macro
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Tamron SP AF 90mm F2.8 Di Macro
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Tamron SP AF 90mm F2.8 Di Macro (motorized)
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Tokina AT-X M 100mm F2.8 AF PRO D Macro
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Tokina AT-X Pro 35/2.8 DX Macro
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