Canon MP-E 65

By Frank H. Phillips — Digital Insect Photographer
Introduction: What is the Canon MP-E 65mm Macro Lens?

This is the most advanced macro lens in Canon's lineup, and perhaps the most advanced macro lens of any available consumer-class macro lens. The main benefit of this lens is its ability to produce magnification up to 5 times lifesize, or a magnification ratio of 5:1 (magnification will be explained below). It is an exceptionally sturdy, firm, and well-constructed lens that comes with a tripod collar mount, which comes in very handy with stationary subject matter. If you care to see some of my work with this lens, please see myDigital Macro Insect Gallery.
This is a manual focus lens, despite being compatible only with Canon's EOS series of autofocus cameras (including all of Canon's digital SLRs). Being a dedicated macro lens, it cannot be used like a "normal" 65mm lens because it cannot focus more than a few centimeters away from the front element. Some people con...