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Message:: [QUOTE="rmpsrpms, post: 2417013, member: 31773"]It isn't the fact that the 105MN is manual that's the issue, just that it won't go beyond 1:2 natively. Beyond that it starts to degrade in performance as extensions are added. Adding a teleconverter is actually a little better option as it keeps the lens formula optimized and magnifies the center portion of the image, where it is sharpest. For lighting, what matters is the diameter of the front-most part, which is the 52mm filter ring on the 105MN. Mounted on bellows, the front-most part of the lens is what limits lighting angle. Most enlarging or duplication lenses have 40.5mm threads (some are 34.5, some even smaller), so you can get closer to vertical with them vs the 105MN. Digital zoom is VERY important for critical focusing. When tethered, most programs offer a zoom function that lets you go to 1:1 or 2:1 pixel detail "live" for focusing. I could not shoot without this capability. BTW, I am not sure about $5 for a 55mm Micro-Nikkor. Doubtful one at that price would be all that usable, but folks do get lucky. The 55MN is the best lens available for shooting Dollars, with the exception of the 95mm Printing-Nikkor.[/QUOTE]