Extension tubes, close up filter or something else?

[shutterbug2]

I own a Canon 400D with a 28-200mm f3.5/5.6 USM lens. This is the only lens i have - I like the range and it's not too heavy. I want to explore some macro photography like flowers and insects like butterflies. What is the best way to do it without buying another lens?

I took some pictures of butterflies using the 28-200mm a few weeks ago. A couple of them were the size of a thumbnail and despite being real close and zooming to the max, it didn't turn out very clear. Some larger butterflies turned out better (not shown). Appreciate some advice. I was thinking of either extension tubes or closeup filters. Are there any other alternatives? Also, how do I put the pix onto the thread itself rather than linking them to another website? Thanks much.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/pixtales/2630711685/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pixtales/2631532438/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pixtales/2630713749/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pixtales/2630712671/

 

[Del_CtrlnoAlt]

Do not post in gallery section. This type of post are for discussion purposes.

 

[shutterbug2]

Sorry. No wonder no one responded to the query. I just transferred this from another thread thinking that this one was more appropriate. Transferred to new thread at http://www.clubsnap.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4143925#post4143925.