Many people who own Nikon 1 camera gear have an interest in close up photography. Unfortunately at the time of writing of this article there was no 1 Nikon macro lens available. Photographers can use their DX or FX Nikkor macro lenses on their Nikon 1 bodies by using an FT-1 adapter. I’ve done this in the past with my Nikkor 105mm Micro f/2.8 and found that the resulting set-up felt unbalanced as the lens dwarfed my V2 body. The autofocus on my macro lens tended to hunt quite a bit when used with the FT-1 I for close up work. As a result I typically used it on a tripod and manually focused the lens.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/500, f/5.6[/caption]
I’ve always preferred to shoot hand-held and I was looking for a different close-up photography solution. I decided to give the Vello Econo Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Nikon 1 Mount a try.
NIKON 1 V2 + 32.0 mm f/1.2 @ ISO 3200, 1/250, f/2.5[/caption]
The Vello Nikon 1 extension tube set includes two extension tubes, one 10mm and one 16mm. They can be used independently or joined together for maximum effect. Extension tubes place distance between your camera body and lens. This reduces the minimum focus distance of the lens and allows subjects to fill more of your frame. Extension tubes are hollow and do not contain any glass elements so they do not degrade the optical performance of any lenses that you use with them.
NIKON 1 V2 + 10.0-30.0 mm f/3.5-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/30, f/5.6[/caption]
These Vello extension tubes are made of plastic and are very lightweight. I don’t think their construction is an issue since most 1 Nikon lenses are also small and lightweight. These tubes do not come with any kind of protective caps.
NOTE TO READERS: Since writing this review I have experienced problems with the flanges on these extension tubes cracking and breaking. My original set of extension tubes were replaced and after only using the new tubes a couple of times I’ve noticed that they are experiencing the same quality issues. Under these circumstances I can no longer recommend that readers purchase these particular tubes – Thomas Stirr.
NIKON 1 V2 + 32.0 mm f/1.2 @ ISO 3200, 1/125, f/2.5[/caption]
I would recommend storing the extension tubes stacked together and packed in bubble wrap or in some kind of other protection to reduce the likelihood of damage to the electrical connections. Or, simply buy a 1 Nikon camera body cap and a lens end cap. The body cap does fit a bit loose so I’d still recommend having some additional protection on these extension tubes.
NIKON 1 V2 + 32.0 mm f/1.2 @ ISO 3200, 1/125, f/2.5[/caption]
The Vello Nikon 1 set of extension tubes are fully automatic and allow your Nikon 1 body to continue to auto-focus and auto expose. Using extension tubes does reduce the amount of light coming through to a camera’s sensor and it can affect auto-focus performance. I found no discernable difference in auto focus performance with my Nikon 1 V2. It was still very fast and accurate and I really enjoyed using these extension tubes.
NIKON 1 V2 + 10.0-30.0 mm f/3.5-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/60, f/5.6[/caption]
They are as easy to install as any lens. You simply line up the guide mark with the one on your camera mount and twist. There is a bit more play between the connections so you will need to make sure that they are all aligned properly.
NIKON 1 V2 + 32.0 mm f/1.2 @ ISO 3200, 1/250, f/2.5[/caption]
John Bosley wrote a great review on the Vello F-Mount extension tubes for F-Mount Nikkor lenses. In his review John did a series of images showing the impact of various extension tubes as well as what happens when tubes are stacked.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/160, f/5.6[/caption]
Rather than duplicate the demonstration that John has already done, I decided to focus on some real-life examples for this review to give readers a good idea of what kinds of images can be captured when using these Vello extension tubes on their Nikon 1 cameras.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/640, f/5.6[/caption]
For all of the images in this article I used both tubes stacked together and mounted with the 1 Nikon 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 zoom lens and Nikon 1 V2. I thought this was a pragmatic set-up for this review since the 30-110mm is a very affordable lens that many owners of Nikon 1 cameras have in their bags. This set-up also allowed me to capture images from a distance of approximately 12-15 inches (30.5 to 38 cm) from the front of my lens to the subject, which in the case of live bees is a prudent distance.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/200, f/5.6[/caption]
All images were shot hand-held. Realistically I don’t think anyone buying a Nikon 1 camera does so with the intent of using a tripod to any great extent.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/250, f/5.6[/caption]
I used matrix metering, AF-S, and single-point AF-area mode. I tried a few shots using Auto-area AF mode and found that this did not give me sufficient control of what was in focus in the frame so I would not recommend using this setting. On occasion I did choose to move the single-point auto focus point with my V2. This is easily done by pressing the “OK” button on the back of the camera, then depressing the control wheel on the back of the camera to move the focus point in the desired direction.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/640, f/5.6[/caption]
As Photography Life readers will know from many of my previous articles about using Nikon 1 gear I like to push my V2 to see what it can do. I carried on this tradition with my test subjects for this review. I shot hand-held under very dull, overcast conditions with some light misty rain falling at times. If you look at the details under each image you’ll notice that I used a minimum of ISO-800. Most of the images in the article and accompanying YouTube video were taken ISO-1600 and as high as ISO-3200. I shot primarily at f/5.6 but did the occasional image at f/8 to see the impact on depth-of-field.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/160, f/5.6[/caption]
All images were processed using DxO OpticsPro 9 with the PRIME noise reduction function used for all images in this article. Additional adjustments were made in CS6 and Nik Suite.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/200, f/8.0[/caption]
To give readers a good idea on the size that subjects can be captured on their Nikon 1 cameras none of the images in this article, or in my accompanying YouTube video, have been cropped. Each is a 100% view of the frame as it was captured.
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/100, f/5.6[/caption]
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 800, 1/320, f/5.6[/caption]
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 800, 1/125, f/5.6[/caption]
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 1600, 1/400, f/8.0[/caption]
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/100, f/8.0[/caption]
NIKON 1 V2 + 30.0-110.0 mm f/3.8-5.6 @ ISO 3200, 1/640, f/5.6[/caption]
I had a blast shooting with these Vello extension tubes! They are so lightweight, easy to use, and affordable that they really are a ‘no-brainer’ purchase for any owner of a Nikon 1 camera that is interested in close up photography, especially if you already own the 1 Nikon 30-110 f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. I plan on having these Vello extension tubes with me whenever I’m shooting with my Nikon 1 V2.
Note to readers: I recently downgraded the Build Quality on these extension tubes as I experienced some problems with the flanges cracking and breaking. I would suggest that you always check the flanges on each of the Vello extension tubes to ensure that do not exhibit any cracking or breakage. This is especially important if you use heavier Nikon 1 lenses like the CX 70-300 with these extension tubes. Always supporting the lens mounted to these tubes to help avoid flange cracking is recommended. (July 1, 2015 update: My replacement tubes are experiencing the same quality problems as my first set and I can no longer recommend that readers purchase these tubes – Thomas Stirr)
Article and all images Copyright 2014, Thomas Stirr. All rights reserved. No use, reproduction or duplication including electronic is allowed without written consent.
Vello Econo Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Nikon 1 Mount
- Features
- Build Quality
- Handling
- Value
- Size and Weight
- Ease of Use
Photography Life Overall Rating
Thomas,
Since, the Vello Deluxe were really hard to come by, I just ordered for 2 sets Movo also got a great deal on Nikon 1 S1 and a Brand New J5 with 10-30 PD Zoom Kit lens. So now per your recommendation I shall have 2 J5’s and a S1 for back up. Btw the S1 came with 11-27.5 mm (I would appreciate your honest take on both the S1 and the 11-27.5 and the 10-30 PD ZOOM) also I want to know your take on Nikon FT-1 adaptor. Given the Nikon 1 system has limited lenses to choose from, do you think I should invest in adaptor? Does it alter the IQ in anyway? Hoping to hear from at your earliest convenience.
Regards,
Kayenn
Hi Kayenn,
I’ve never used the 1 Nikkor 11-27.5 mm lens so I cannot comment on it. That lens does not have vibration reduction so I never had any interest in it. We owned an S1 for a very short time. It was purchased for my wife and after using it for a little while she didn’t like the fact that the camera did not have an EVF. She also found the rear screen was quite difficult to use in bright sunlight, so after returning from a trip to Greece we sold the camera shortly thereafter. I never much liked the S1 either as I didn’t like the handling of the camera, as there were not a sufficient number of external body controls for my liking. Whether one person likes a camera or not is really a moot point. It all comes down to what the owner of the camera wants and needs. You may find you like the S1.
As far as the FT-1 adaptor goes, it really depends on whether you already have a selection of F-Mount lenses. If you do, then having the FT-1 adaptor would extend the use of those lenses to your Nikon 1 kit. I suppose having an FT-1 adaptor would provide you with some additional flexibility should you have trouble finding more 1 Nikkor lenses for your kit. I really can’t tell you what you should, or shouldn’t do, as it depends on your personal needs and how much money you are willing to invest in a discontinued system.
Tom
Tom,
What is your take on Kooka KK-NM47AF extension tube for Nikon 1? Given your updates on how fragile the plasticky Vello Deluxe proved to be, I was considering these since I was unable to find Movo anywhere online. (I would appreciate if you coughs provide me with a link to Movo).
Thank you
Kayenn
Hi Kayenn,
I have never used this brand of extension tubes so I can’t comment on them from personal experience. They do seem to have either metal mounts or metal coated plastic mounts, both of which should be more durable than plastic mounts.
Tom
Tom,
Thank you for your prompt input. Truly appreciated. In one of your articles you mentioned Vello Deluxe to be extremely fragile so do you still recommend it.? Could you please give me your opinion on this one : Kooka KK-NM47AF it is listed on ebay for about $69.
Hi Kayenn,
The Vello Delux Extension Tubes for Nikon 1 have metal mounts and are far more durable than the plastic mount version. I have no trouble recommending the Vello Delux tubes.
Tom
Tom,
At the very onset let me compliment you for a great write-up. New to the Mirrorless camera thing. As a matter of fact I am new to the whole Nikon system. Moving from Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ50. I love shooting architecture, CITYSCAPE. SKYLINES and such. Occasionally would love doing portraits of small children, old couple et al.
Was recently gifted Nikon J1 with kit lens 10-30 MM f/3.5-5.6 PD Zoom. Given my requirements what other gears should I add to my list. Your suggestion will be greatly appreciated.
Also I keep reading that Extension tubes have potential of ruining the camera, how true is that? And will I need one for my type of photography. If so kindly suggest one.
Regards
Kayenn
Hi Kayenn,
In terms of cityscape, skylines and such you may want to consider the 1 Nikkor 6.7-13 mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. It is quite sharp and will provide you with the equivalent field-of-view of 18-35 mm when compared to a full frame lens. The 1 Nikkor 32 mm f/1.2 is a beautiful lens which is very good for portraits, but also is one of the most expensive in the Nikon 1 lineup so it may be difficult to justify in terms of the investment required.
If you like the Nikon 1 format you may want to consider a Nikon 1 J5. It features a 20.8 MP BSI sensor with much better dynamic range and colour depth than any other Nikon 1 camera. It also has a tilting rear screen and better ergonomics. I have three of these bodies and use them for all of my photography when I don’t need an EVF equipped camera (the J5 like your J1 does not have an EVF).
In terms of extension tubes, I’ve been using them for quite a few years now without any adverse effects thus far. I would avoid any tubes that have plastic mounts as the flanges can crack making the assembly unstable. I’d suggest the Vello Delux Extension tubes for Nikon 1 which were available from B&H in the past. I have a set of these tubes and use them frequently. I also have a set of MOVO tubes.
I’ve heard from many Nikon 1 users who are planning on keeping their system for as long as possible. Many are looking for new or good used gear to supplement their current kit so finding additional Nikon 1 bodies and lenses, even used ones, can be a challenge.
Tom
Tom,
Thank you for your prompt input. Truly appreciated. In one of your articles you mentioned Vello Deluxe to be extremely fragile so do you still recommend it.? Could you please give me your opinion on this one : Kooka KK-NM47AF it is listed on ebay for about $69.
Hi Kayenn,
The Vello Delux Extension Tubes for Nikon 1 have metal mounts and are far more durable than the plastic mount version. I have no trouble recommending the Vello Delux tubes.
Tom
Thank you so much for informing us about this extension tube set. I purchased the set and am quite pleased with it. I am sure it will add to my enjoyment of photography. In fact, it already has. Here is an image I shot yesterday of a half inch long Ivy Geranium bud. The picture was sh0t handheld, so it would have been better if I had used a tripod. I don’t claim professional results but they sure are good enough for me.
Thanks,
Vern
Hi Vernon.
Very nice capture! I’m very pleased to read that you are enjoying the extension tubes!
Tom
I am so happy I found this article of yours Thomas! I love taking close up photos of flowers and bugs with my Nikon V1 camera! I LOVE your photos and am totally amazed that you could be such lovely images at ISO-1600 and ISO-3200 and hand-held. Did you shoot most of these at 30 or 110 or somewhere in between?
I have the 30-110 lens too and use it with the Vivitar Close-Up Macro Lenses, but I don’t seem to get as many as sharply focused as you. Could you give me more tips about how you hold the camera so steady and any extra tip on focusing would be nice too. I don’t have a tripod at this time and have to handhold all my shots.
By the way, some of you may enjoy reading these articles about close up shots with the Nikon 1 V1: Review: Macro on the cheap – Marumi DHG200 +5 achromatic lens – bigstreetguns.com/2013/…atic-lens/ and Macro with the V1, 10-30mm and 18.5mm f/1.8 – bigstreetguns.com/2013/…-5mm-f1-8/
Hi Joni,
All of the shots were done hand-held with the 1 Nikon 30-110mm lens fully extended to 110mm (efov 297mm). If you check the shooting details on each image you’ll see that the shutter speeds I used were between 1/100 and 1/640 so they were not really all that slow. I used single point auto focus for the majority of the images to ensure that I could get my focus point exactly where I wanted it.
I used the lens softness and PRIME noise reduction functions in DxO OpticsPro 9 on each of the images to help with image sharpness and to deal with noise issues at ISO-1600 and ISO-3200. Nothing really special about my hand-holding technique…elbows tucked in, good solid stance or body posture, shutter release at the end of full breath exhale, with a slow, smooth press on the shutter.
Tom
Excellent review. I picked up a set of inexpensive Kodak 40.5 mm closeup lenses this summer and had fun using them. However, there was a definite loss of optical quality compared to the extension tubes you used.
The only downside of your review is the demand you generated – B&H is currently out of stock!
Hi John,
Wow…I had no idea about the stock situation at B&H! Glad you enjoyed the review!
Tom
Thomas,
First of all, thanks for the great review of this product… and informing me that such a thing even exists for the 1 system! I, like you, use my V2 is my “fun” camera and grab it for doing things like cityscapes and landscapes. I’m still building the system up myself but I certainly want to get the 70-300mm for the 1 system to have it a wildlife / birding system and I will surely be picking up these extension tubes to add macro to the mix.
My questions for you are…
1) How much magnification can you get with the standard 10-30mm kit lens? As of now I’ve been using my V2 mostly for wide shots with the 6.7-13mm during photo walks so I don’t have the 30-110mm unfortunately.
2) Can you use the extension tubes + FT-1? I’d like to play around with that if possible to see how close I can get with a 50mm f/1.8G.
Either way, you’ve already 90% convinced me to get these. I hope Nikon brings out a Micro lens for the 1 system that we can combine with these to exceed 1:1 magnification!
Hi Lawrence,
Thanks for your comment and positive words!
Like Tom D. you asked some questions to which I did not have immediate answers so I needed to do a few test shots this morning for you.
As far as using the 10-30mm goes…this can be done but to achieve maximum effect the front of your lens will be about 1″ (2.5 cm) from you subject. This makes this set up only good for static subjects…some things like spiders in a web may be possible I suppose. Based on my crude measurements the size of the subject increased from 2.2 cm to 14.7 cm, or about 660%. Obviously using only one extension tube at a time cuts down the magnification effect but also allows you to shoot with the camera further away from the subject, but even with just the 10mm extension tube alone you’ll still be about 2″ (5 cm) away from your subject for maximum effect. The focusing distance with the 10-30 using extension tubes appears to be 1″ to 6″ (2.5 to 15 cm) range depending on which tube or combination of tubes is used.
The FT-1 adapter will work and auto focus with 50mm G is fully operational (I have that lens so I could do some exact test shots for you). The size of the subject in my test went from approximately 1.8 cm to 7.5 cm, or about 415%. To achieve this the front of the lens was approximately 5″ (12.7 cm) from the subject.
You’ll need to be careful when trying to use the FT-1 adapter with these Vello extension tubes as mounting a lens to the FT-1 takes a fair amount of torque. If you don’t brace the FT-1 and your F-mount lens that torque could be transferred down to the extension tubes and damage them. While this set-up does work, it does feel quite loose and wobbly.
As far as achieving more than a 1:1 magnification with a potential 1 Nikon macro lens that will depend on what the minimum focusing distance is with such a lens. If it focuses very close to subjects an extension tube may not allow the lens to focus.
Tom
And btw, these are not wasps, they are blossom flies.
Hello Thomas,
really great photos and again a lot of very interesting information. I own a V1 and J1 as well. The J1 I bought in red, but then I started longing for a viewfinder, so I bought a V1 in black, that shares the red lenses with the J1. Looks funny, but works just fine:-)
I’m interested in the V2 as well, but it seems the viewfinder is not as good? I tried it out and indeed noticed a difference.
For macro I allways use the Raynox lenses. Just yesterday I filmed the same insects you shot here, in macro for the first time. Didn’t turn out too bad for a first attempt. You do have to get really close with the Raynox though, is this any different with the Vello tubes?
Not sure if I can share it here, but this is it. There was quite a strong wind, and the quality on Facebook is lower: www.facebook.com/video…38;theater
Hi Petra,
Thanks for your positive comment…I’m glad you found the review of interest. With the Vello extension tubes and the 1 Nikon 30-110 zoom lens I was shooting from about 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) away.
Thanks for identifying the insects as blossom flies…I had no idea what they were.
As far as the viewfinder with the V2 goes…I’ve never shot with the V1 so I cannot make any first hand comparison.
Tom
That’s a bit further shooting distance than the Raynox lenses… might by handy, although I quite like to stick my nose in things;-) The flies are hoverflies in English I just learned from Google.