Rather than auto white balance read on how to set a custom one. Auto works really well for wondering around photos but a custom one under controlled lighting will do a much better job. I actually recommend to my students not to use any auto settings when you have control over the light and variables.
I always use macros for over all shots and close ups typically they are so much better than the kit zooms. If I was looking into the next thing I recommend a good TTL flash continuous lighting for moving subjects and macro is limited where flash you can have as much power as needed.
Here is my flash light 'tent' I designed for a jeweller. It is fast and super simple and looks reasonably good.
http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...n-construction.