Good work.
I have used a reverse lens mount, diopters (that mount on the front of the lens like filters), extension tubes (that mount between the lens and camera), a bellows, and a macro lenses. All can produce good close up photos.
The reverse mount is the low cost, yet a good quality solution. But as you noted, you do lose you automation.
The diopters are light weight, efficient to use, low cost, will maintain all auto features, but are often relatively inferior quality compared to a good camera and lens. They function like a magnifying glass. This is the lowest quality solution.
I most often carry a set of Kenko extension tubes which preserves all of my camera's auto focus and exposure features. The tubes are becoming more expensive as the cameras become more sophisticated, however, they are still much less expensive than good macro lenses. The tubes are light weight and convenient to carry. Since they fit between the camera and lens you can use them with all of your lenses (although they may be impractical with some). Since they contain no optical elements you do not compromise the quality of your lenses. Also there is generally no disadvantage in using an OEM rather than your camera's brand. Just be sure it is the right fit for your camera's mount and will maintain all of your desired auto features. They function by moving the lens elements closer to the subject which enables the closer focus - it is same basic operational principal of a macro lens.
A bellows is the same concept as the extension tubes, but with more flexibility. It allows for a continuously adjustable amount of extension. You can finely zoom in just the right amount of extension. It is the bulky solution, not very practical for taking on a hike. The bellows could be easily damaged in transit. Often you lose automation with a bellows. I have often thought that it should be possible to engineer a "zoom" auto extension tube, however, the automation features might become prohibitively complex.
A quality macro lens will produce the best quality photographs, but at the highest cost and most weight. But to no surprise you do benefit from what you are willing to pay and carry.
