Yes you right,
for macro, so far if i have the object inside house, i dont use flash, i instead use permanet light, such as halogen or white leds.
I have to get an small white iglo, it's also great for macro.
I also discover the possibilities of tube extenders and also ring inverters so you can extend the lens or put them backwords.
i order both from ebay under 10 euros... i am looking forward to try them!!
with the tubes you loose the autofocus, but i am not using it in macro, i prefer manual.
Are you also into photography ? what camera do you have?