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>I'd like to get some advice on selecting a macro lens and flash system for
>intra-oral photographs. I use a Nikon AF system, and I'm leaning towards
>an AF 105mm f/2.8 D type Micro Nikkor. My questions are:
>1. Has anyone use this combination? If so, what are your comments on them?
You will probably not use AF for close work, so a camera with a sharp
viewing screen is in order (I would not use an N90, therefore, and the
"D" feature will probably not be useful, also. The 8008, or any non-AF
Nikon body with TTL flash metering and the possibility of installing
a matte-centered "B" screen would be preferable, I think.)
>2. Has anyone use the AF 60mm f/2.8 D micro Nikkor for intra-oral and
>extra-oral photographs? Would this lens be too wide and less realistic
>compare to the 105 in taking extra-oral shots?
I would try it (it is really excellent in the macro range, and it works
very well on the TC201 2X converter at smaller stops, if you need more
working space [I think you will]), but the 105mm macro may serve you
better for most photos, and will make flash easier (though the 60+2X
gives you the option of more easily taken wide-field close-ups, and 2X magnification for very small fields [but the focusing aperture is about
2 stops smaller]). I guess I would go with the 105mm....., and it keeps
things simpler.
>3. What flash system so you use? Ring, point, or combo?
You probably want to keep the rig simple to use, and it will be hard
to avoid troublesome shadows unless you use a ring light.
>4. I forgot the model number for the Nikon Ring flash. Any good?
Yes, but it is not truly a ring light - it is more like two flash heads
very near the lens front (one flash tube can be switched off, for
greater modeling). I would choose this flash (SB21? - the one with
the ISA shoe, not the F3 shoe, unless you choose the excellent F3).
>5. Any advantage to use a TTL flash and the D type matrix metering for
>intra-oral photographs?
Definitely use TTL flash (you may need to adjust ASA setting or exposure
compensation with slide film to get the overall exposure right for your subject), but the other flash features will not help you, since ring
lights do not have the "D" feature, and it may not work anyway at very
close focus distances.
>Thank you for your advice in advance.
You're welcome!
Hope This Helps