[mendel]

I just bought a Nikon 105mm VR Micro len. This is the first time I used micro len. When I use manual focus(I also switch to the M mode in my D200 body besides switch the m mode on the len) and shot the object at a distance of about 5-6 inches, the focus is not stable even when I do not move the camera very much. Even I use autofocus by half press the shutter, there is out of focus after 1-2 second before I finally press the shutter down. Is that the problem of the len or the camera or is it because it is normal since it is so close to the object? Thank you any C Hing who could advise.

[beancurdbean]

The 最近主體對焦距離 could not be less than 31cm (12 inches) for this lens
http://www.nikon.com.hk/productitem.php?pid=880-7ee2b83643

It is the basic to note if take macro shot

[mendel]

Thank you for reminding me since I first use the macro len. Is that mean I need to keep a distance of at least 12 inches to shot the insect , flowers in order to have the stable focus whether manual or autofocus???

[beancurdbean]

Yes
BTW, the main function of macro lense is having shorter 最近主體對焦距離 than normal lense (about 60cm for a 105mm lens)

[Gowest]

A VERY slight move of your hand can cause out-focus of your subject so you have to be VERY steady when taking macro shots or use a TRIPOD to stablised the camera WHENEVER POSSIBLE. It's not about anti-shake or vibration reduction or image stabilisation, it's about the DISTANCE between the camera and the subject, which has nearly zero tolerance after you have focused the subject even using small aperture.