Macro on a Budget

Many people love to do Macro but hit a barrier when they price the lenses. A good one can cost from $700 - $1500 and sometimes more.
There are alternatives
There are Macro Filters that you screw on to any lens or there are Extension Tubes, which I will discuss today.

Extension Tubes These are hollow tubes that fit between the camera body and the lens and allow you to focus much closer. They can fit on any lens.  The better quality ones have mounts made of metal and fit tightly. One brand has a flock lining so there are no internal reflections. They are available in Australia and cost around $200. They are camera mount specific and most of the popular brands have them or a 3rd party brand will suffice. Check they have the ability to keep your exif data (lens length & f-stop) and allow auto focus. Pros - No loss of image quality Cons - lose some light.

Fit them to any Lens
You can use them on any lens including telephoto, zooms and even Macro lenses for very close up.
Wide angle lenses may be a problem as you may get so close, you touch your subject!
Telephoto Zoom Lenses
I particularly like them on telephoto zooms for several reasons.
You can be at a distance to your subject (particularly good for snakes and funnel web spiders!). Also good for Dragonflies and other flying creatures that spook easily.
A telephoto zoom allows you to use your zoom to get into the focus range more easily.
You can use your telephoto for bird or similar photography and put the rings in your pocket. Then you can out them on when you find your Macro subject

Using Your Extension Tubes
The Depth of Field is very small - the closer you go, the smaller it gets.
It is also hard to find where you can start to focus. A good way to achieve this is to walk or lean forwards and keep focusing until your subject appears sharp. Then you can fine tune your focus either by moving yourself or with your Auto Focus button. Instead of walking forward, you can use your zoom to get you into range.
Can't Focus to Infinity
When you attach these tubes, you can't use your lens as a normal lens. You can only use it for close ups.
Set of 1, 2 or 3 Tubes
The tubes come as a set of two or thee depending on brand, or some can be as a single tube. They are different sizes depending on how close you wish to get to your subject. You can use them separately or together. The larger the tube the closer you can go - and the larger your subject is on your sensor.
Conclusion
If you like Macro, and are on a budget or even if you want a pocketable item that turns any lens into a macro, they are definitely worth getting.