just received my new EF 100mm 2.8L macro. but I find that the instructions do a poor job of explaining what the selector that has "FULL....0.5-INFINITY......& 0.3M-0.5M".. what is the purpose of each and when might I use them?
foathog wrote:
just received my new EF 100mm 2.8L macro. but I find that the instructions do a poor job of explaining what the selector that has "FULL....0.5-INFINITY......& 0.3M-0.5M".. what is the purpose of each and when might I use them?
that is your focus range limiter switch.
Foathog, the reason for this limiter when you use auto-focus is to speed the auto focusing process - set to full the lens will hunt for focus over the entire possible focusing range, but if you are taking normal (i.e. - not macro) shots you likely don't need it to waste time hunting for focus at distances less than half a meter from you (unless you are REALLY close to the kid playing soccer or something!). Meanwhile, if you are shooting macro and use auto-focus (a practice most recommend against, including myself) then setting the switch to .3-.5M would essentially tell the system not to even try to find focus at distances beyond half a meter, since if you are that far from your subject you won't be getting a macro shot anyway.
hannaco
Loc: People's Republic of California
Place in the 'Full' position to use the entire range from infinity to half a meter. Place into the other position to limit the range from .3 to half a meter.
Use the lower range for macro work, use the full range for everything else.
good discussion. i have the same lens but i didn't know about that.
Nikonian72 wrote:
You now own a fine macro lens. I invite you to vie... (
show quote)
thanks, I'll check it out. I had two macro lenses with my Canon F1 in the "old time" film age. LOL
thanks to everyone for your help. I have heard that it might be better to manual focus in macro. that shouldn't be hard to do for me. I grew up with manual focus.
If you want to reply, then
register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.