Quoted: I am curious if a manual focus Sigma lense might actually be preferable to an auto focus lense for this purpose as obviously with macro work I know I use the auto focus very little...
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Any decent macro lens will get you better close-up shots. Currently I use extension tubes to get the close up shots of stuff. Another option is close-up filters (250d/500d). The other thing you'll want is a good flash....or two...
As for the product stuff, look into making a softbox. If you're in a constrained space or need to travel a good flash and a diffuser for it, plus a piece of backing material to place stuff on. In sunlight, a shade wouldn't hurt, either.
A tripod is a big help, though with enough light and a steady hand (think of rifle shooting) you can do hand-held macro.
For example. In general you'll be using manual focus for something that close in any case, but you can always try letting auto-focus work.
Extension tubes can be used with most any lens and run about $150 (get kenko or promaster--there's no glass so don't spend extra for them). Dunno about close-up filters.
If you're looking to go for a low-cost lens, the Sigma 50mm can do life-size and is about the same price as the Canon (which only does 1:2, 50%). The 90-105mm macros start to get really good (tamron, Canon, Sigma). Serious close up folks can go for the 150/180mm lenses or Mp-E 65 and get some hefty-cool bug shots.