tc for nikon AF Micro Nikkor 105mm 2.8d

[GlynH]

Hi is there a teleconverter suitable for this lens. I want to use it on my D300 and D80 for macro work.
This doesnt need to be AF, Manual focus would be ok.
I would prefer a 1.7tc if possible. I know i will lose approx 1.5 stops but would the depth of field be effected in a similar way.
IE would i lose any depth of field at a given f stop compared to using the lens without the TC.
Thanks Glyn

[Duke Leto]

Hi how close to the lens mount is the rear optic as this will indicate if a TC can be used

[GlynH]

the rear optic is approx 6mm from the rearmost part of the body/mount. or level with the rear flange. Not sure which you need. this lens is the fore runner of the 105mm vr lens currently on sale.

[Overread]

Glyn when you use a teleconverter on a macro lens you increase the maximum magnification possible by the lens at its minimum focusing distance (which remains unchanged). So you can get increased magnification - however as you increase the magnification factor that your working at your depth of field and also your plain of focus reduce. This makes things harder to operate.
With a 1.4TC the chances are not really that noticable in the depth of field nor plain of focus - magnification boost is noticable though
A 1.7 I can't comment on as I am a canon shooter and we don't have one :(
a 2*TC though gives you a very noticable reducing in depth of field and plain of focus - but your now working at 2:1 macro (twice life size) so you do certianly notice this when working at close as you can. A tripod and focusing rail can help, but if your steady you can still work handheld without much trouble

[Duke Leto]

I'm not sure if a 1.4 or 1.7 would be accommodate on that lens, best check with Nikon, theres a compatibility chart on their website. If the lens isn't AF-S you'll need to mod any current Nikon TC's

[GlynH]

Just popped into a local camera store to try the 1.7tc on the lens and it does not fit. So back to the drawing board, unless anyone knows if any of the older tc's would fit this lens. As long as the metering would work im not bothered about auto focus.
Thanks for viewing
Glyn

[Duke Leto]

the Nikon lens compatibility list doesn't show one

[I4ani]

Hi Glyn,
Not wishing to contradict anyone or set you on a wild goose chase, but an old Nikkor lens brochure indicates that the tc designated as the TC-201 is usuable with the lens designated as AF Micro 105mm f/2.8D.The following provisos are indicated against this combo = "There is occasional vignetting. and when used at smaller aperature than f/11 with high shutter speeds, there is occasional uneven exposure".
If this works, you would have to find one preowned.
You state that the TC 1.7X would not fit, was this because of the ANTI FIT LUG on the tc.This lug can be easily removed if that was the case.
regards I4ani.

[Phil Bishop]

Do you need the longer focal length to get more working distance or are you after a larger image.
If the latter, and you are able to get close to your subject, have you considered extension tubes?

[deanlewis]

I use a Kenko pro 1.4 converter on my nikon 105mm f2.8 vr macro. It works fine, but my main use for it is on my 300mm prime.

www.camerabeanbags.co.uk

Dean

[GlynH]

Hi in reply to the above three posts.
Phil as you say I want the TC to allow me more working space as you say. Mainly for the more skittish Dragonflies and butterflies.
Dean The lens i have is the forerunner to the 105VR that you have, i purchased this for underwater photography when i am diving and vr is not an issue underwater. You need to minimise the distance between the lens and the subject to minimise the waterborne algae etc that causes speckles across the picture.
14ANI im not sure what the anti fit lug is but there was a black metal part that protruded from the TC that fouled the lens case, so maybe that was the problem. Ill ask around a few of my mates who dive with Nikon gear to see if any of them has a TC-201 that i could try out. Most of them have this older lens, they say its a superior lens for underwater than the newer 105VR.
Thanks for all your help to date
Regards Glyn