Add-On Lenses: Close Up Set?

So today I go to my local camera store and pick up an adapter. The salesman assured me that it would allow me to mount a 58mm add-on lens on a 52mm lens ring. Of course he gave me the wrong one - a 58-->52mm step-down adapter, instead of a 52-->58 mm step-UP adaptor, which I clearly and specifically asked for, so tomorrow it's back to the store to exchange it. (Don't you just love packaging that doesn't allow you to examine merchandise clearly?) More to come, including close-up photos of coins, I hope.

Hi. I have use close-up lenses for Canon with great success. Like with any glass, you get what you pay for. I'm not familiar with the Hoya close-up lensed, but have some of their regular filters and they are nice. You will loose some light, and possibly a little image quality, but it shouldn't be noticeable. I would also recommend extension tubes. They are simply spacers of different size that mount between the camera body and lens. They have no glass elements and will not effect the image quality. Although you may loose some light, if the camera is mounted on a tripod or copy stand wouldn't matter anyways. They can be purchased relatively cheap compared to a lens. They can also be used in conjunction with your close-up lens for even more magnification. I use the Kenko brand set and have had no complaints. I think the most important thing is a steady camera. I you aren't using a tripod or copy stand of some kind, buy one ore make one. Also use you're timer. I keep mine set a couple seconds than the shutter fires. Also use mirror lock-up if you have that option. All these things make small differences, but added up turn into a noticeable difference in image quality.

Mike