Nikon Micro-Nikkor AF 105mm F/2.8G ED N VR – This lens is the holy grail of Nikon macro lenses. It was the first of its kind to incorporate VR (vibration reduction stabilization) to a macro lens and it works remarkably well, buying you an extra stop at two in low light, perfect for still life and a wedding shot such as this. This would be the sharpest, best macro option and also doubles as a fine focal length for portraits.
Nikon Micro-Nikkor AF-S 60mm F/2.8G ED N (Nikon DX cameras only) - For DX, crop Nikon cameras, this macro lens is solid second for best Nikon macro lens. It is very sharp, but lacks VR, which may be a drawback for some, but is certainly a lens you should consider. It can also double as a portrait lens, but the 105mm focal length will probably work better and give you some more working distance.
Sigma AF 105mm f/2.8 EX macro DG – This sigma is probably one of the best Sigma lenses you can buy. Ideally, I would recommend first-party glass, but this is extremely sharp and has a fast autofocus and is comparable to the Nikkor 105mm F/2.8G above. At less than $500, this third-party option should be on your short list.
Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Di SP macro – Here is another solid third-party alternative from Tamron. It is very sharp, but the autofocus is not as fast and accurate as the Sigma and Nikon lenses since it uses a micromotor as opposed to a ultrasonic motor found in the other lenses.
Tamron AF 60mm f/2 Di II LD [IF] SP Macro – This is the newest Tamron lens and has a uniquely wide aperture at F/2.0. This will allow you to potentially use this during the wedding for low-light church or reception party shots. It is not as sharp as the previous lenses, but as a macro, is quite good and will get the job done.
Kit and Other Zoom Lenses – What about other lenses? If they have a “macro” function or focusing range, they will probably work okay. A macro lens will allow you to get as close as you need to capture the fine details and will give you a larger working aperture to get more light and control your depth of field (DOF). A macro lens will also give a pleasing DOF and bokeh (out-of-focus blurs).
