Focal length? This may be a dumb question but I can't find the answer so here goes, is focal length measured from the first element or the focal plane on your camera? I ask because I...

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Focal length?

May 14, 2013 06:15:39 #

Masonken52 Loc: Annapolis Md.

This may be a dumb question but I can't find the answer so here goes, is focal length measured from the first element or the focal plane on your camera? I ask because I want to get into macro photography and this seams important. I assume lens focal length is a combination of the elements.

May 14, 2013 06:41:09 #

murm Loc: Adelaide, Australia

Masonken52 wrote:

G'day, it's from the focal plane, should be a mark on the top of your camera indicating the exact point. I do a lot of close-up & macro & have never used it, when the subject is focused it's focused if you can't focus move the camera back slowly a bit until it is. You may find a lot of people use it, just wait for their replies.
Cheers !

May 14, 2013 06:47:34 #

selmslie Loc: Fernandina Beach, FL, USA

Masonken52 wrote:

Focal length is usually described in terms of a simple, single element lens for which it is the lens to sensor or film distance when focused at infinity. Actual lenses are much more complex.

Google "lens focal length" and you will find the subject covered in many different ways, some more complicated than others but a couple that will clear this up.

Check out Travel Photography - Tips and More section of our forum.

May 14, 2013 06:48:20 #

TNmike Loc: NW TN

Here is a good explanation of focal length. TNmike

http://www.exposureguide.com/lens-basics.htm

May 14, 2013 06:56:03 #

Masonken52 Loc: Annapolis Md.

Thanks I like the response from murm, he never uses it sounds great to me. I'm pretty new to photography and easier is all ways better way to go.

May 14, 2013 07:07:36 #

murm Loc: Adelaide, Australia

Masonken52 wrote:

Thanks I like the response from murm, he never uses it sounds great to me. I'm pretty new to photography and easier is all ways better way to go.

Way to go mate, don't complicate things that don't need to be, keep it simple & just have fun.
Did you check some of my shots by clicking the link at the bottom of my posts ?

May 14, 2013 07:13:20 #

Masonken52 Loc: Annapolis Md.

murm wrote:

Way to go mate, don't complicate things that don't need to be, keep it simple & just have fun.
Did you check some of my shots by clicking the link at the bottom of my posts ?

Nice shots!! Someday ill be on the same level. I really like the lions and hippo.

Check out Travel Photography - Tips and More section of our forum.

May 14, 2013 07:19:55 #

murm Loc: Adelaide, Australia

Masonken52 wrote:

Nice shots!! Someday ill be on the same level. I really like the lions and hippo.

Thanks for having a look & commenting mate, I do it purely for the challenge & fun, I just love nature !

May 14, 2013 12:53:22 #

Wahawk Loc: NE IA

The longer the focal length, the farther away from the subject to get the same size.

With a "50mm" lens you would be 1/2 the distance from the subject that you would be if you are using a "100mm" lens.

With the longer lenses it is more important to check their closest focus distance, and the "macro ratio". True macro would indicate in the information that it will shoot 1:1 at closest focus. Some lenses that are marked 'macro' will only get 1:2 or 1/2 life size at closest focus.

May 14, 2013 12:56:15 #

Masonken52 Loc: Annapolis Md.

Wahawk wrote:

The longer the focal length, the farther away from... (show quote)

Thanks I never understood the macro ratios before, great info thanks again.

May 15, 2013 03:22:28 #