I am very excited to get into macro photography -- but not just little critters and flowers. I am also interested in capturing abstract, colorful shots and plan to create/build such shots indoors, which has the added benefit of allowing me to keep shooting throughout the long Wisconsin winter.


I have a 7D and the following lenses: Tamron 17-50 f2.8, EF 85 f1.8, EF 70-200 L IS f4. I don't need the macro lens to double as anything else. I have the portrait focal lengths pretty well covered.


I have a budget of around $1000 to get completely set up, and I need a new tripod. That obviously limits my lens choices considerably. I am curious about your reaction to the following set up:


1. EF 100mm USM Macro (at $519 on Amazon, seems like a good deal)


2. Phoenix Smart Flash RF46C Macro Ring Flash ($90)


3. Induro AT-214 tripod ($150)


4. RRS BH-30 Ballhead ($275)


5. RRS plate for 7D ($55)


What do you think? Have I forgotten anything?


I am already over budget. [6]


Thanks!