I've been lusting after a fast AF macro for my Nikon systen.Either a 60,70 or 80mm 2,8.Alas,the spirit is willing but the bank account weak.
Would one or two close-up filters fill the gap until I can raise the $ for a serious macro lens?I know they wouldn't be as sharp but I'm craving the need to get up close and personal.
Mike some of the best closeup filters or (diopters) are now made by Canon , for small focal length lens a Canon 250 D works best , they come in several different sizes 52mm and 58mm for lens of 100mm or over you have the 500D.
Diopters don't degrade image quality if you buy the best diopters . There is also no loss of light, like when using Extension tubes.
I have used Nikon 6T diopters a lot in the past - very good quality for the amount you shell out.. available in 62 mm dia only if I recall correctly.
However, I find more flexibility with extension tubes, particularly when I use it on telephoto lenses - can be used to isolate a bit distant objects even better and create a nice dreamy feel. One of my shots with an extension tube on a cheapo zoom lens can be seen here http://www.flickr.com/photos/a_peek_in_my_world/2379621071/
Kenko makes a set that are nice for AF , and as Deb said the Nikon Diopters like the 6t are very good . the T series was a dbl element like the canon 250and 500D , they are just hard to find.