I will answer your both questions in assignment thread and put up here as well
Compact zooms i.e. my previous Panasonic FZ35 is a very extraordinary macro performer.
Here is an example: Coriander (sokha dhaniya) seeds
034b by Sabrite, on Flickr
Those who think kit lens 18-55mm cannot do anything should rethink
Here is my set-up for kit lens macro
Pic taken with mobile. These are hair bands used by ladies and are frequently available in home
This is the subject; cushion surface visible in previous pic as well taken with kit lens mounted in routine:
DPP_0008 by Sabrite, on Flickr
And here is the result (H)
DPP_0007 by Sabrite, on Flickr