Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm currently using an Fuji Finepix A210, and while for the most part I'm satisfied with it, I need something better. While it takes fantastic general photos of herps and tarantulas, it doesnt do well with small fine details. Examples would be trying to focus in on reptile eyes, the tiny claws on the end of a tarantulas foot, insects, small spiders etc. While I can get a photo of a small (under 1/2 inch) spider to turn out, it lacks details and looks like crap compared to my snake photos.

I have tried everything to get them to turn out, all different lighting, the specimens are still, and nothing works. So what type of camera should I get that takes better photos of the little things? Maybe an SLR but what type of lense do I need? Any and all comments and ideas welcome!!

With an SLR, you will need a Macro lens for this. Try to get one that will do 1:1 Macro (image is lifesize on the negative). The longer the focal length of the lens, the more working distance you will have. For instance, a 50mm Macro will give you 1:1 from about 2 1/2 or 3 inches from the subject to the front lens element. A 100mm Macro will allow you to stay about a foot or so away. This is important for a couple of reasons. For one thing it is difficult to properly light the subject when the lens is only 2 inches away. For another, the animal will be less uncomfortable with your presence the further away you are.

Try an Olypus C-8080. It's supposed to have 2 macro settings. Macro, and "super-Macro". The 8 mpixels will help with the small details too.
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Lamar, Debbie, Nathaniel and Iggi :>~