A Closeup filter is an inexpensive addon for infrequent macro photography. For almost one tenth the cost of a Macro lens you can get a Closeup filter. They come in different strengths and simply screw on to the front of your lens like any other filter.

You’ll find Closeup filters rated with a +1, +3, +4 or +10. This doesn’t directly refer to how much magnification you get, but does indicate the strength of the filter. Closeup filter sets are readily available at most camera stores and include a +1, +2 and +4. These can be stacked for more magnification, but you do lose a bit of quality.

Both Canon and Nikon make excellent quality Closeup filters. Nikon’s 3T, 4T, 5T and 6T fit 52mm or 62mm size lenses. Canon’s 250D and 500D come in a variety of sizes. These are more expensive since they are multi element filters with 2 or 3 pieces of glass. The added image quality makes the extra cost well worth it. I routinely use a Nikon 4T on my 50mm lens for macro photography.