Canon PowerShot SX1 IS plus the Raynox DCR-250
What a long title for a blog post but that is exactly what I want to say about my experience using the DCR-250 super macro conversion lens with the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS.
I am tempted to add however that while the conversion lens could give the camera many new leases of life, it could also take many of them and kill the excitement of shooting in macro entirely. More on this later.
In the meantime, you know how small a ladybug is. The photo on the right is taken with the SX1 IS’ super macro mode.
Below is the photo of another ladybug taken with the SX1 IS with the Raynox DCR-250 conversion lens attached. As you can see, you can get a lot closer to the subject with the conversion lens attached than without it.
How to use Raynox DCR-250 conversion lens?
It’s easy. First, screw in the lens to its universal adapter, and then snap in the adapter into the end of the camera zoom lens.
Set the camera to shoot in “normal” shooting — not macro or super macro — and bring it close to the subject you want to shoot, but not too close. You can only get your subject in focus from a specific distance of about 10cm. Use the zoom lens to magnify the subject further.
If needs be, move your camera a friction closer or father to keep the subject in focus. If there is enough light, for instance shooting outdoor on sunny day, it is recommended that you shoot in Tv mode (shutter priority mode) and set the speed at 1/200 or above. This is especially useful to freeze the movement of the subjects.
It is also recommended that you combine the fast shutter speed with the burst mode to increase the chance of capturing the subject in focus. Again, this can only be done when there is enough light. Otherwise, just shoot in Program (P) mode and let the camera decides the speed and aperture combination.
Be prepared to be frustrated
One of the most frustrating moments you are going to experience with shooting macro with Raynox DCR-250 conversion lens is the difficulty to get the subject in focus and if you have shaky hands and the light is failing, chances are 99 per cent of the pictures you shot will come out blur. You just need to keep trying.
Another frustration is the tendency for you to always shoot in high ISO because with the macro lens attached, you will almost always run out of good light.
Conclusion
Overall, despite the shortcomings mentioned above, I am satisfied with my purchase of Raynox DCR-250. At RM280 or about USD80 (plus the adapter), I think it is worth the money I’ve paid for as I can now have the option to shoot things up close.
One final note, I find it quite strange that Raynox lenses are not easily available in camera shop in Kuala Lumpur. I had to order online to get my lenses from a private dealer who then speed-posted the thing to me after I bank in the money to his account number.
