New macro lens!

A few days ago our friendly neighborhood UPS driver delivered my new Canon efs 60mm macro lens. Excitement ensued!

My primary lens to date has been a Canon efs 15-85mm. It’s an excellent all-around lens, and it even holds its own as a macro lens. But I’m already in love with the 60mm. It’s a true 1:1 macro lens that’s small and light, meaning I can carry it around easily (335g compared to the 625g Canon 100mm L). One complaint some people have is that the working distance at 1:1 magnification is only a few inches from the front of the lens, but since I do primarily plant and lichen work I don’t mind. The Digital Picture has a good review of the lens here.

Of course I just had to try out the new lens as soon as I got it. Looking around the house for items to photograph revealed one very cute and furry critter sitting next to the window.

Sniff: A closeup of Lucca's cute "old rose" colored nose. (Marc C. Perkins)
Sniff: A closeup of Lucca's cute "old rose" colored nose.

The light was fairly diffuse room lighting, but the lens was capably able to handle it opened up nice and wide.

Yes, closeup pictures of cat eyes are a cliche, but how can I resist taking a piture of Lucca's green eyes with my new macro lens? (Marc C. Perkins)
Yes, closeup pictures of cat eyes are a cliche, but how could I resist taking a picture of Lucca's green eyes with my new macro lens?

And, of course, it was fun to play with selective focus.

I love what happens at f2.8.  This picture gives me a feeling of fear: it's like a giant cat is suddenly so close that your eyes haven't had time to focus on the iris yet. (Marc C. Perkins)
I love what happens at f2.8. This picture gives me a feeling of fear: it's like a giant cat is suddenly so close that your eyes haven't had time to focus on the iris yet.

After my fifteen minute, hand-held shoot with only sunny-window-enhanced room lighting, I’m very impressed.  The lens is light, quick to focus, and sharp.  I can’t wait to use it more.

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