A macro lens is a type of camera lens designed for capturing close-up images of small subjects, such as insects, flowers, or intricate details of objects. These lenses allow photographers to focus on subjects at a very short distance, often achieving a 1:1 magnification ratio, meaning the subject appears life-sized in the photograph. Macro lenses come in various focal lengths, typically ranging from 50mm to 200mm. They are popular among photographers who specialize in nature photography or product photography, as they provide sharp detail and clarity, making even the smallest subjects visually striking.