I've not managed to finish a grow properly yet so I've not taken any proper macros yet....I can tell you in theory, or regarding any other kind of macro photography - but I've just not got the ganja photography experience yet.
I'll cut you through all that manual in a couple of minutes:
- green mode is for total nubs and lazy people - only use in an emergency (fully auto)
- P mode is green mode for people with clue but little time to setup the shot. You'll probably use P most of the time for general shots
For macros, you'll really only use Aperture Priority mode:
- Aperture Priority (Av) - you set the aperture, the camera works out the shutter speed. For macros most of the time you'll want a BIG depth of field to be able to get it all in, so you'll want a SMALL aperture (e.g. f11). However, small aperture means less light, so you absolutely MUST have a tripod because it'll mean a longer exposure time/shutter speed.
For normal budpr0n, not macro, the same depth of field rules apply - but are easier than macros. Use Av mode, set f11 or f8 (keep ISO at 100 for quality) and a tripod.
If you want to get artier, reduce depth of field to below f8, and pick a focal point (e.g. a trich, nice bud etc) and everything else will be blurry except your subject. Not great for budpr0n because you really want to see the whole plant in context.
As for lenses, anything other than that stock lens will be better generally. I only use Canon lenses, L series for a few...but my macro is Sigma. The Canon 50mm 1.8 is an excellent lens for very little money (60-80 quid) but is a prime....so no zooming. It's PIN SHARP though....awesome kit.