I really like my Canon 2.8 100mm Macro. All in all the Sigma 105, and Tamron 100mm are also good, but for an extra $50 or so you get a much better built lens from Canon. Both the other take great shots, but I have tried both and they both feel cheap to me compared to the Canon. Be ready to spend at least $400-500.

 

I show off the work of mine in the next few days after I get my pictures back from the shop.

 

Hi Joe,

The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 (USM and non USM version) are both exceptional lenses. I have one of each (one at home one at work).

You can find both version used in very good condition, starting at $350 (from reputable dealers). I bought the one at home used from keh.com

I have used this in the field to photograph dart frogs as well as in the studio. With an extension tube and a EF 1.4X teleconverter, you can transform this into a 140mm f4 macro that will focus closer and give higher magnification and maintain high quality.

Yuri