Pentax Extension Tubes

[gigahz]

Guys any info where can i get hold of these?

and is it possible to mount with this lens?
Pentax SMC M100/f4 Macro (Manual)

Im planning on getting it for macro shoots thanks

[alanswan]

If you are only using it for this lens, I suggest you buy from eBay. The plastic ones goes for typically under 15USD.
Alternatively, you can DIY using lens caps and PVC pipes (variants found on the web includes usage of toilet rolls and Pringles tubes).

The only ones found locally supports AF and costs in the range of over $200 for Pentax ones and over $150 for 3rd party ones in KAF-mount.

[fengwei]

Originally Posted by gigahz Guys any info where can i get hold of these? and is it possible to mount with this lens? Pentax SMC M100/f4 Macro (Manual) Im planning on getting it for macro shoots thanks

Hmm, thought you were selling this lens? Glad to see you decide to keep it

It's better to get some auto extension tube for your lens, like the original Pentax one, or some similar third party ones. Better don't get those cheap cheap ones 'cause those are not so easy to use. The original Pentax Auto Extension Tube Set is very good, but hard to find (creampuff has one set ).

Of course if you are really into macros, better get a 1:1 dedicated macro lens. More expensive, but very worth it.

Good luck.

[otc]

Originally Posted by gigahz Guys any info where can i get hold of these? and is it possible to mount with this lens? Pentax SMC M100/f4 Macro (Manual) Im planning on getting it for macro shoots thanks

Gerry, I got my sigma DG 530 dg in AP for $310 incl.GST for my K10D syn-p-pttl. Able to swivel with infra-red light in low light-good point. I have not use 360fgz and this is my first flash and I quite like it. I think this Dg 530 sigma could be used to triger your pentax 360 fgz for macro shoot. Just set my lens and the falsh will set to the focal length automatically

By the way I got my extension tube in ebay, aluminium tube, M-mode for less than 20 dollars.

Next week, I can pass this flash to you to try....Ha ha you have my hand-phone.sms me

OTC

[slacker]

Originally Posted by otc Gerry, I got my sigma DG 530 dg in AP for $310 incl.GST for my K10D syn-p-pttl. OTC

That is cheap for the new 530. Local warranty? Have you tried the wireless? Able to work fine?

[otc]

Originally Posted by slacker That is cheap for the new 530. Local warranty? Have you tried the wireless? Able to work fine?

Yap, local warranty card. I have not tried wireless. Just bought today for company's dinner tomorrow, asked to take shots...... yet to explore the features.

otc

[otc]

Originally Posted by slacker That is cheap for the new 530. Local warranty? Have you tried the wireless? Able to work fine?

This flash I have acquired is EF 530 DG ST, the basic one. There is another EF 530 DG SUPER and this latter one is has the features of wireless and slave. This latter version would be good for macro lightings.

otc

[creampuff]

Please stick to the topic, how did a discussion on extension tubes proceed to Sigma flash? May I suggest you communicate by PM.

gigahz, your 100mm f/4 macro alone provides 1:2 (half life size magnification) fully extended. If you need to go 1:1, you will NOT achieve it with the 3rd party or standard extension tubes made for Pentax mount. Simply put, they won't give you enough extension to the sensor plane.

With a focal length of 100mm, your lens needs an extension of 100mm to reach life size. Pentax does make a 100mm extension tube that is dedicated to match to your lens. It is rare and difficult to come by and costs quite a lot on eBay.
When used with a 50mm macro, it will easily provide about 2:1 magnification!!!

My tip is no matter what the objective lens used, try and get an extension tube that has the aperture coupling. Trying to use cheap extension tubes in M mode is really a hit or miss affair. With an aperture coupled tube, you can shoot in aperture priority and the camera can meter the appropriate shutter speed STEPLESSLY. This is far, far more accurate considering that there will be light loss due to the length of the extension tube used.