"This is more of a microscope than a lens.. U absolutely need to use a tripod and focusing rail to get adequate results. Fly's eyes, pin heads, and dust mites are simple with this lens.. just be patient.

I'll start off by saying that this lens is not worth buying unless you are seriously in to macro photography. The lens itself has a maximum working distance of 4 inches and is no use for anything other than macro work. Back to the MPE though.......

Excellent image and build quality; Does what no other macro lens can do - zoom in

Hard to get used to; Needs a dedicated macro flash to work properly

Not realy a lens I needed for any aspect of my Photo Biz but One of those great "toys" that I felt I couldn't Live without.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Rugged; Strong Construction

Learning curve

Pros: Rugged, Durable, Strong Construction, Consistent Output, Easily Interchangeable Cons: Learning curve Other thoughts: Not realy a lens I needed for any aspect of my Photo Biz but One of those great 'toys' that I felt I couldn't Live without.

This macro lens fantastic offering a 5 times magnification, but this lens is hard work. There is no focus ring on this lens, you focus the lens by moving the camera closer or further away from the subject.

I've been shooting macro with this amazing lens now for 2 years. At first, I read horror stories about changes in technique, rails, tripods and the like but I bought one anyway and it has taught me more about photography than any other single piece of equipment.

One of the very best macro-lenses, starts where other stop, 3:1 up to 5:1 onother world..... but you need some accessories like macroflash and a millimetric plate and a lot of patience..

5:1; excellent imagequality; nice bokeh

from 3:1 very dificult to handle - you need macroflash and millimetric-plate

This is a unique lens not available from other manufacturers. It is for macro photography only, as its minimum resolution is 1:1 and it goes up to 5:1! The depth of focus is so shallow that it is hard to see to focus (no auto focus) without bright light. A macro flash system is virtually mandatory.

If you love macro photography, this lens takes it to another level. There is an initial learning curve with it, but once mastered it truely opens the door to insane macro ability. Lighting has been an issue, at the 5x magnification, due to the shallow distance from the object.

Superior build quality; Super-sharp images

pricey

Very impressive lens! It is not an easy piece to use but I'm enjoying the results A macro flash is very important.