Macro, Micro & Close-up Lenses
A macro lens has the ability to focus from extremely close up to infinity. This allows it to capture images of small objects in larger than life and frame filling sizes. The lenses are often called close-up lenses. However, a close-up lens is generally a lens attachment used for close up photographs and they don't typically have the ability to focus on infinity.
Some photography companies may also call a macro lens a micro lens. These lenses are designed to be used for close-up photography. These types of lenses are available in assorted focal lengths. They are also able to produce 1:1 images of up to one half or even life-size. A 1:1 image means the object is life size, whereas 1:4 image means the object is one quarter of its actual size. A 100mm macro lens can produce a 1:1 image the same as a 50mm macro can, but with a 100mm lens, you don't have to be as close to the subject when taking the photograph. These types of lenses are ideal for taking shots of small live creatures or for close up medical photography. Lenses come in different apertures and in auto and manual focus models.
