Difference between "macro zoom" and "telephoto zoom"?

Question

I just recently purchased my first DSLR camera, a Canon EOS Rebel Xsi. So far it seems amazing, but I'm now looking to expand my lens selection. It came with a standard zoom lens (EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 IS), but I would like a better zoom. I've been looking online and with Consumer Reports and found a lens that seems very reasonably priced (Tamron AF 55-200mm f4-5.6 Di II LD Macro). Consumer Reports had it listed in the "tele zoom" category, but the manufacturer's website has it listed as "macro zoom" lens. So what is the difference? (P.S. any recommendations for other modestly priced zoom lens is appreciated too.)

Answer 1

The jargon is kind of irrelevant. Macro photography is really closeup shots. So you get the added benefit of that versus a regular 55-200mm lens plus the closeup stuff. Tamron makes decent lenses for the money they ask for them. I'm not sure about that one specifically. I have a couple Tamrons for my Nikon and I really like one of them, the other is okay. It takes good pictures but it hunts for focus a lot. When it is focused, it's good. Its really good with the macros. Tele-zoom is pretty self explanatory. A macro zoom is basically the same thing but with macro capability. For me, this is a plus. Good Luck.

Answer 2

A macro zoom allows you to take close up photos. And I have little faith in Consumer Reports. They

gave a low rating to a camera I was interested in, and it turned out to be a great camera. I'd google the lens and see what kind of reviews you get for it. If amazon.com sells it, see what other buyers had to say.

Answer 3

When I had my first DSLR, I bought a few cheap lenses. It only took a few months to really regret that, but by then I had to wait for ages until I could afford to replace them slowly - one at a time.



Think long and hard before you go for cheap....... chances are you'll regret it very soon, and you'll be longing for decent FAST lenses.



Consider saving a bit longer to buy quality - lenses tend to stay with us for many years.

Answer 4

macro is for close ups, telephoto is for zooming.