Macro lens, MANUAL or AUTO focus?

[carlostaiwan]

For what cameras? Is it going to switch analog and digital?
I prefer manual focus, the 105mm f2.8 ais, but maybe for a bit more you can go for the D version with AF if you are planning to use it in digital (to keep the exif data

 

[RalphLambrecht]

I am planning to get a 105mm macro lens for my wife.
The 105 is to get more distance from the subject so lighting the subject will be easier.
But I'm stuck on AF vs MF.
For a novice, is AF of value in macro shooting?
At that close a distance, I am thinking maybe not?

I use to be a die-hard defender of manual focus.But ,I 've run so many tests now comparing the two and,I was never able to beat auto-focus with manual focus and I know that true sharpness depends on accurate focus.Now I'm auto-focus all the way!

 

[ic-racer]

Autofocus works best with stationary objects. Moving objects require manual focus, otherwise the shutter won't release at the correct moment in most cases.

 

[jtk]

I have used both manual and auto focus for macrophotography. Both work, it is a matter of taste.

Yes, sometimes. If depth of field isn't a concern (copy work) AF can be wonderful assuming good gear.