This would make a gorgeous Christmas Card!! I'm just beginning to use my macro lens. Wind seems to be a problem around here all the time!!

THANKS for all the macro tips! Leigh, I don't know what kind of tree it is, but I will see if i can find out.

Those are the coolest pinecones! I've never seen any quite like that. And how exciting about your macro lens! I have a new camera and my macro lens is a DX and doesn't work with my camera. I really want a new lens, but so expensive. Do you know what kind of tree this is? When I was shooting macros I often used my tripod and manually focused all my shots. I think you are doing great with it!

So very beautiful

Beautiful Lisa! I have the 100mm macro as well and it does take some getting used to. I do put it on manual focus quite frequently and I find you always think you need to get in closer than is necessary for the shot. Be patient and you two will be having a love affair in no time :)

This is lovely, Lisa. I'm glad you asked for macro tips...there are a lot of good ones here that I will take advantage of, too.

this is so pretty! nicely done! my macro tip is use a tripod and hope there is no wind!

This looks wonderful, Lisa! Keep playing and show us!!!

I know when I got mine that I had focusing issues. Barbara suggested the manual focus idea but I don't trust my eyes enough. Judy's tripod suggestion is also a good one, but I seldom have the patience. One thing that really helped for me was to shoot quickly after focus is achieved so there is no possibility I will move and make it go out of focus. So I focus and shoot very quickly. It has helped. I do have to say, this lens does require some time to get used to, but I have never talked to anyone who has it that doesn't absolutely love it, so the practice will be well worth the time. I LOVE this shot, by the way!

Well, I think this is gorgeous...and I agree with all of the tips listed below, step back a little (sometimes you are just tooooo close), focus on manual, especially if there is any movement at all, and I don't use a tripod because I don't have one...(on my Christmas list)

This is so pretty. Love the soft green in the background. Macro tip- always use a tripod to prevent blur, and I always shoot manual. Sometimes, even though it doesn't make sense when you're trying to shoot something up close - sometimes you just need to take a step or two back. Good Luck!!

Wonderful. They are hanging like little bells.

So pretty! Great focus and the colors are gorgeous. I almost always focus my macro manually because it can be so touchy.

IM like you -- in love with a lens! (mine is the 50mm macro) love your 3 cones and the color is very nice!

Lovely....I too have that lens and have had fun playing, so any tips would be appreciated by me too!

Yay for macro lenses! I just love pinecones. I think my husband would be very happy if I didn't need to gather some each time we are in the mountains. If you are struggling to get a focus, put it on manual focus and get it right where you want it. This looks just great!