I have a Sigma 50mm macro f2.8 and find the lens to perform very, very well. With the 35mm equivalent of 75mm on my cam, it still gives me plenty of working room and close but not quite a 1:1. This lens does a fine job of protraiture, also but for that I generally use a longer lens. One thing to be careful of is precise focusing..I generally do manual focus but the auto with the Sigma works well. Manual lets me pick a very distinct part of the little image. Also, I made the mistake of getting "too close" at first, closer than the lens would focus properly. Some prefer an 100mm lens but I have not used one and cannot comment one way or the other. I use a tripod when possible but that is always possible when chasing bugs! : ) Best of success with whatever lens you get.