Choosing the Best Canon Body for Macro Photography: EOS 5DS vs 5DS R with MPE 65 f/2.8

Introduction

Both the Canon EOS 5DS and the 5DS R offer remarkable results in macro photography, but which one is the best fit for your needs? This guide will help you decide between the two models, considering factors such as low light conditions, macro capabilities, and image sharpness. Additionally, we'll explore alternative options if the 5D Mark III or the APS format 6D are more suitable for your budget or specific requirements.

Performance Comparison

Michael Lauer notes that low light conditions can present challenges in macro photography. With a 65 mm lens, the distance between the front element of the camera and your subject can limit the amount of additional light you can introduce. High magnifications and the need for small apertures for depth of field make low light conditions even more critical. However, both the 5DS and 5DS R have virtually identical low light performance according to DXOMark's comparison.

The primary difference between the two bodies lies in the presence of a second 'self-canceling' anti-aliasing (AA) filter in the 5DS R. This filter is designed to potentially provide a sharper image. However, the effects are more theoretical than practical, especially for typical macro photography tasks. You would need to have highly skilled technique, critical focusing, and large prints to notice any significant differences. For further discussion on this topic, this article from FStoppers provides valuable insights.

Lighting Conditions and Alternative Options

Lighting plays a critical role in macro photography. If you do not yet have a dedicated macro setup, consider starting with the 5D Mark III or the APS format 6D, which offer excellent results and still leave room in your budget for additional equipment. Canon's MT-24EX Macro Twin Lite Flash and flash mounting system, as described in this article from Outdoor Photographer, can be essential tools for macro photography.

For situations where you might need longer working distances, you might also consider a second macro lens. The 5DSR, with its AA-less or 'reduced AA-effect' sensor, is less likely to suffer from moire artifacts, especially in macro photography. Only a few samples have exhibited moire issues, and most of those are easy to resolve. Furthermore, for applications such as wildlife, landscapes, architecture, and even fashion photography, AA-less or 'reduced AA-effect' sensors often provide better results compared to traditional ones.

Performance in Various Conditions

The Canon 5DS R is generally considered superior to the 5DS in terms of noise detail and dynamic range, especially for long exposures lasting minutes or more. While the 5D3 is the oldest of Canon’s full-frame 35mm DSLRs, it is actually the worst performer in low-light applications, ISO performance, and dark current noise. The 6D, 1DX, 1DX II, 5DS, and 5DSR models are all better in this regard, although normalized to the same resolution, the 5DS and 5DSR still outperform the 5D3.

For extremely long exposures, some of Canon's models can even outperform Sony's full-frame A7R series, often considered the best full-frame low-light performers. It's important to remember that there is no single "best" camera for all scenarios; different models excel in different conditions.

Conclusion

Both the Canon EOS 5DS and the 5DS R can produce excellent results in macro photography. While the 5DS R offers a slight advantage in image sharpness, the practical impact of this difference may be minimal. Consider your specific needs in terms of lighting conditions, budget, and desired features to make the best choice for your macro photography endeavors.