Learning.
 

Hey guys.

I just got my first DSLR.
Nikon D5000 with 18-55mm VR Nikkor lens.

I'm a little confused about the different modes on the wheel.
I get M, A, S and P modes.
But when I go into Close-Up mode, and for example, I put my finger infront of the lens, and take a photo, it still blurs my finger out and focuses the background well. How can I take macro shots?

Thanks.
-DreadAlert-

I am not familiar with this lens so I have to rely on a review to find the minimum focus distance. According DPR's review it is 11cm. The lens will not be able to focus on anything nearer than that no matter what mode is selected.

DPR review of the lens
http://www.dpreview.com/lensreviews/...p5-5p6_vr_n15/

Here is a link to DPR's review of the camera. Page 7 details the various modes and a bit about each one.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond5000/default.asp

I hope that is of some help.

Don

There are of course ways to reduce the minimum focus distance of a lens, adding a suitable lens in front (either a close up filter or a reversed prime) or adding some form of extension between the lens & the camera (extension tubes or bellows). There are suitable threads in the Macro techniques section ( which Don features in extensively).

Reversing the kit lens will also get you a lot closer but can be very difficult to control with modern lenses/cameras.

All of the above options will require some further purchasing, but it needed be too much.

I'm even less familiar with your particular kit than Don, (I believe he at least uses a Nikon) but your DSLR will prove to be a truely flexible camera as your accessories & lens collection grows.

:rolleyes: :D :D

If you really want more magnification for closeups using this lens, then closeup lenses that screw onto the front filter thread are your cheapest option. The only extension tubes that will allow aperture communication between 'G' type lenses ( such as yours ), and the camera body are the most recent offering from Kenko.

The aperture control on 'G' type lenses relies on electronic communication with the body which would be lost if it is reversed so this is not an option for you.

Don

I am using a Canon so my terminology may not quiet match Nikons but it would appear to be you need to reset your AF point seetings from 'Matrix' to 'Spot'
By default it appears your camera selects 11 points in matrix mode
By setting your camera to look at one 'spot' (ie your finger) only and it will not try to 'guess' what you are trying to focus upon.
See page 57 of your manual (I downloaded the manual from Nikon)
Hope this helps ~ John