Macro LensUpdated 21 days ago
Macro Lens – Getting Started | SANDMARC
Everything you need to set up and start shooting with the SANDMARC Macro Lenses — from close-focus basics to choosing between the 25mm and 100mm.
▶ Video Tutorial
Watch the full getting started video for a guided walkthrough of the SANDMARC Macro Lenses.
1 Compatibility
Both Macro lenses work with a wide range of iPhones and Android devices — including standard (non-Pro) models. Unlike telephoto add-on lenses, macro lenses attach over the main wide-angle camera and don't require a Pro model.
| Model | Compatible | Mount |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 / 17 Plus / 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 13 / 13 Mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 12 / 12 Mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max and older | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| Samsung S26 / S25 Ultra | ✓ Yes | Via Case & Clip Mount |
| Other Android Models | ✓ Yes | Via Clip Mount |
2 First Time Setup
From unboxing to first macro shot in under five minutes.
Fit your iPhone into the included SANDMARC case. Press firmly at each corner until it clicks into place. Make sure the case matches your exact iPhone model — it's precision-cut for each one. If you prefer not to use a case, use the included clip mount instead (see Mounting Options).
Remove the front and rear protective caps before mounting. Store them in the included lens pouch when not in use — the pouch doubles as a microfiber cleaning cloth.
The macro lens mounts over your iPhone's main wide-angle camera (the 1× lens). Its physical position varies by model — see the Camera Location Guide below for your specific iPhone. On single-camera iPhones, there is only one rear lens.
Hold the macro lens over the wide-angle opening on the case. Carefully align the threading, then twist clockwise with smooth, even pressure — about two full turns. Do not overtighten.
Open Camera (or a third-party app) set to 1×. Move your iPhone slowly toward the subject. The 25mm needs to be just 10–25mm away; the 100mm focuses at 53mm. Move until the subject snaps into sharp focus — you can't adjust with zoom.
Tap your subject on screen to lock focus before capturing. At extreme close range, autofocus can hunt — tapping locks it precisely. Hold your breath or brace your elbows to minimise camera shake.
3 Camera Location Guide
The wide-angle camera (where you mount the macro lens) sits in a different position depending on your iPhone model. Select your iPhone series below to see the exact location.
| Model | Cameras | Wide Camera (1×) — Mount Here | Telephoto Position |
|---|
4 Mounting Options
Two mounting options are included. Choose based on your setup.
The SANDMARC case features precision-threaded aluminum that matches the lens barrel. Most stable option — built for repeated use without wear on either the case or the lens.
Clip the lens directly over your iPhone's camera — no case required. Quick to attach and remove, works on any iPhone or Android device including Samsung S-series.
5 Shooting Tips
Practical tips for sharp, professional macro results from your first shoot.
Macro lenses have a fixed focus distance. Instead of adjusting zoom, physically move your iPhone closer or further from the subject until it comes into focus.
At extreme close range, even the smallest movement is amplified. Rest your elbows on a surface or use a tripod, especially in lower light. The 100mm is light enough to handhold comfortably.
At macro distances, autofocus can miss. Tap your subject on screen to lock both focus and exposure before shooting for consistently sharp results.
Macro photography often requires you to be very close to the subject, which can cast your phone's shadow over it. Shoot near a window, use a small reflector, or add a portable LED light for even illumination.
Both macro lenses produce natural background blur at close range. No Portrait Mode needed — the shallow depth of field separates your subject from the background organically, giving a DSLR-like result.
Wipe the front element with the included lens pouch before shooting. At high magnification, even a small smudge or dust speck will appear in the frame and reduce sharpness.
6 25mm vs 100mm Macro
Both lenses deliver true macro magnification and multi-coated optics. The key differences are working distance, magnification level, size, and bokeh character.
| Macro 25mm | Macro 100mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 25mm | 100mm |
| Magnification | 10× | 12× |
| Focus distance | 10–25mm (very close) | 53mm (more working room) |
| Max total zoom | Up to 30× | Up to 30× |
| Coating | Multi-coated | Multi-coated |
| Weight | 25.4 g | 114 g |
| Dimensions | 38mm diameter · 15mm height | 48mm diameter · 39mm height |
| Background blur (bokeh) | Medium | Strong |
| Rendering style | Sharp, detailed close-ups | Organic, film-like — counters iPhone's artificial sharpening |
| 3rd-party app needed? | No — works with native Camera app | Required for telephoto sensor on Pro models (e.g. ProCamera) |
| Ideal subjects | Insects, textures, coins, jewellery | Flowers, portraits, product photography, moving subjects |
| Best for | Maximum detail on stationary subjects | Natural, cinematic look with more working distance |
7 What's Included
Everything needed to start shooting is in the box. Both the 25mm and 100mm include the same accessories.
- 1 Macro Lens (25mm or 100mm)
- 2 Clip-on Mount
- 3 Lens Pouch (doubles as microfiber cleaning cloth)
- 4 Front & Rear Lens Caps