Can someone please explain what the difference between lenses when shooting jewelry with a rebel XTi. Looking to know the difference between 55mm and 100mm macro? what will be the difference be between the 2? Just bought the 65mm 2.8, but it was WAY too close up. Need room to bounce light / reflect but will the 100mm be a lot better. Need to get this in one shot with minimal photoshop. (using the 55mm lens I am combing 3 layers to get desired effect).

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small items like jewelry are usually shot with a macro lens. longer focal lengths will allow the camera to be farther away and leave room for your lighting. you may also want to consider a ring flash for this type of photo. accurate metering for exposure is also crucial. the built in meter on your camera may not be good enough. if you dont have a good handheld meter you may want to try either the center weight or partial metering modes and bracket the shot.