Kenko +1 +2 +4 Close Up Filter Set

These filters permit closer focusing, which allows for extreme macro shots. I use them on my Panasonic FZ7K, the reason I mention this is that the filter's effects can differ depending on the camera/lens.

Overall, I prefer the +2 more, because the magnification ratio is neither too high or too low. The image quality is also better than the +4, since it magnifies less. It is quite difficult to auto-focus with the +4, and it is also slightly thicker than the other two.

The +1 provides the best image quality, but with less magnification.

When using them, you must be the exact distance away from the subject in order for the camera to focus properly. For the +2, this is usually around 30-150cm with an equivalent focal length of 432mm. Getting the exact distance away can be tricky, I find that shifting slightly back and forth is helpful, even 3cm can cause the image to dramatically come into focus. Depth-of-field is also extremely shallow, so precise focusing is critical.

I have taken photos of insects and the background is leaves about 1 meter away. With the insect in-focus, it is quite possible to have the background turn into an even green color. The resultant photos almost look like a piece of green cardboard was used for a background!

Lastly, contrary to what many people say, I do not recommend “stacking”. There are already flaws with one on its own (CA, loss of sharpness, lack of depth-of-field), why increase them? The +2/+4 provide plenty of magnification, you just need to get the right distance from the subject. Also, by “stacking”, the camera AFs slowly and not always accurately.

If you have another filter on your lens, take it off. This will help improve image quality.

One more tip: Use a tripod whenever possible! The magnification also magnifies camera-shake & since small apertures are needed for depth-of-field, a slower shutter speed will be also be needed. Image-stabilizers work OK, but a tripod is best.
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This Kenko set can be the right choice for people who:

• Are looking for a cheaper alternative to an expensive macro lens.
• Want a lighter alternative to an heavier macro lens.
• Can tolerate some CA or not-tack-sharp photos.
• Shoot macros occasionally, and for their own enjoyment.
• Usually view their photos on-screen, or maybe print a 4x6 every now and then.

This Kenko set is NOT the right choice for people who:

• Are “pixel-peepers”.
• Want tack-sharp photos.
• Hate chromatic aberrations.
• Need the best possible image-quality.
• Don't have an image-editing program. (Post-retouching is necessary at times).
• Are pros looking to publish their work in large sizes.

• Cheaper than many others.
• Plenty of magnification, great for macro shots.
• Compact & portable.
• Multi-coated glass.
• No vignetting when used on their own.

• The one huge disadvantage is chromatic aberrations. The more magnification in the image, the more CA. I find the aberrations to almost always be a cyan color, and fringed on the outside by a very thin band of purple. Every photo I’ve taken with these filters presents some amount of CA. However, by carefully adjusting camera position and lighting, this problem can be somewhat minimized. (You can also post-process the image).
• Image quality will always deteriorate slightly.
• Some distortion occurs, especially when close to the subject and using the +4.
• Round metal frame can easily have its black finish scraped off when screwing the filter onto the lens.
• Glass scratches easily.
• Depth-of-field loss. (Always focus very carefully).
• The included case is not designed well: When extracting/storing filters, it is likely their glass will be scratched on a metal button that is on the interior front of the case. The “metal button” is the back of a snap-clip used to close the case. Also, the tensioned flaps inside make it hard to remove/store filters, you need to pull the flap back with one hand and reach in with the other. This is clumsy & takes some time, enough to miss a fast happening moment. The possiblity of the flaps acting as a “mini-catapult” exists too.

• Tiffen UV Haze-1 filter.
• Kenko circular polarizer filter.
• Kenko 4-point star effect filter.
• Optex multi-image filter.
• Hoya center-spot filter.

• Vivitar 1.5x conversion video lens.
• Vivitar 0.55x conversion video lens.

• Haven’t contacted Kenko. OK at Photo Expert.