Introduction
The Fotodiox Macro Bellows is an essential accessory for photographers seeking to explore the world of extreme close-up, macro, micro, stereographic, slide/negative copying, and panoramic photography. This precision instrument allows for very accurate focusing through its rack and pinion gear system, enabling minute adjustments to your camera setup. Constructed to accommodate heavy cameras and lenses, it features a locking screw to maintain position, even when angled. The bellows can be mounted on various supports like copy stands, tripods, or light stands using its ¼” tripod screw. Its compact and lightweight design also makes it suitable for outdoor nature macro photography.
What's in the Box
- Fotodiox Macro Bellows Unit
Setup
- Attaching the Bellows to Your Camera: Align the red dot on the Fotodiox Macro Bellows with the corresponding red dot on your Canon EOS EF/EF-s camera body. Rotate the bellows clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
The bellows unit with the camera mounting ring visible, ready to attach to a Canon EOS camera body.
- Attaching a Lens to the Bellows: Align your desired lens (compatible with the bellows mount) with the front mount of the bellows. Rotate the lens until it locks securely. Ensure the lens is firmly attached to prevent accidental detachment.
The macro bellows connected to a Canon EOS 40D camera, illustrating the camera-side attachment.
A complete setup showing the macro bellows mounted between a Canon EOS camera and a lens, ready for macro photography.
- Mounting on a Tripod or Copy Stand: The bellows features a ¼” tripod socket on its base. Attach the bellows assembly to a stable tripod, monopod, or copy stand for optimal stability during macro photography, especially at high magnifications.
Operating Instructions
The Fotodiox Macro Bellows unit, showcasing its extendable design and camera/lens mounts.
- Adjusting Magnification and Focus: The bellows extends from 40mm to 150mm. Use the large knob on the side to extend or retract the bellows. This adjustment changes the distance between the lens and the camera sensor, directly affecting magnification and focus. For precise focusing, utilize the fine-tune rack and pinion gear mechanism.
- Locking Mechanism: Once the desired extension and focus are achieved, tighten the locking thumb screw to secure the bellows in position. This prevents unwanted movement, especially when the camera is angled up or down, ensuring sharp images.
- Manual Exposure Control: When using the macro bellows, all camera and lens functions become manual. You will need to manually set the aperture on your lens (if it has an aperture ring) and adjust exposure settings (shutter speed, ISO) on your camera. Live View mode on your camera can be helpful for precise manual focusing and exposure evaluation.
- Lens Compatibility: The bellows is designed for Canon EOS EF/EF-s mount cameras. Lenses with compatible mounts can be directly attached. For other lens types, appropriate lens adapters may be required (not included).
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the bellows. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. For dust inside the bellows, use a blower brush. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit for cleaning.
- Storage: Store the macro bellows in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use. Keep it away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Handling: Always handle the bellows with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts, which could damage the precision mechanisms.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty achieving sharp focus. | Insufficient light; incorrect bellows extension; camera shake; shallow depth of field. | Increase lighting on the subject. Adjust bellows extension incrementally. Use a sturdy tripod and remote shutter release. Stop down the lens aperture (increase f-number) for greater depth of field. Utilize Live View for magnified focusing. |
| Bellows not holding position. | Locking screw not tightened sufficiently. | Ensure the locking thumb screw is fully tightened after adjusting the bellows extension. |
| Camera or lens not attaching securely. | Incorrect alignment; debris in mount; incompatible mount type. | Ensure proper alignment of dots/indices. Check mounts for any obstructions and clean if necessary. Verify that your camera and lens are Canon EOS EF/EF-s compatible or that you are using the correct adapter. |
| Images are too dark. | Insufficient light; lens aperture too small; incorrect camera exposure settings. | Add more light to the subject. Open up the lens aperture (decrease f-number). Adjust camera ISO or shutter speed to compensate. |
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
- Item Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Model Number: Bellows-EOS
- Brand: Fotodiox
- Manufacturer: Fotodiox Inc.
- Lens Type: Macro
- Compatible Mountings: Canon EOS (EF, EF-S)
- Bellows Extension Range: 40mm to 150mm
- Construction: All metal
- Tripod Socket: Built-in ¼”
Warranty and Support
Manufacturer Warranty
This Fotodiox Macro Bellows includes a 24-month manufacturer warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Fotodiox customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Fotodiox website: www.fotodioxpro.com.
