randik

I'm not happy with the resolution I am getting from my new Nikon D5300 and Tamron 18-270 lens. The photos are not as SHARP as I think they should be. I have only shot in auto mode because I think I should perfect that before I experiment. Could it be something in my settings? I am a rank amateur, so please help in baby words... Thanks.

oldtigger Loc: Roanoke Virginia-USA

send us the same picture but check download so we can see details.
When you ask for assistance, have the courtesy to hang around a couple minutes for the answer.

Reinaldokool Loc: San Rafael, CA

More questions than answers. If you have the kit lens (Or can borrow one) try shooting with that. Also go to manual focus and focus on a sharp target like a "No parking Zone" sign.

Make sure you have a green dot in your viewfinder which shows that the camera thinks its in focus (I've never had it not be on my Nikons). Preferably use a tripod and a remote release, or at least shoot at high speed (1/250 or higher) (You will set your aperture to correspond or use S mode)

There may be something wrong with the camera, but in my experience that is highly unlikely. If you are still unhappy, you have eliminated the lens as the problem. If things get better, then you know that the Tamron lens is probably problematic.

Many people including me have had good lenses from Sigma and Tamron--maybe not the same quality as Nikon, but pretty darn good--however, I had a Sigma 18-250mm that was always too soft, even though others with that lens model had better luck. I sent it in to be checked, but was never happy with it. I've never had that with a Nikon lens (Nor with a Canon, when I was shooting Canon.) You pay for that in money.

If after all that, you still think the focus is off, call Nikon. They are very anxious to maintain their excellent reputation for quality and for customer service.

tdekany Loc: Oregon

That camera is more than capable to produce stunning quality. The weak point is the lens. Long and slow zooms don't have the same quality like prime lenses or faster and shorter ($$$) zooms. The other issue on top of all this maybe movement. Use a tripod and see if you get sharper pictures.

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

SERIOUSLY, you will get better images using one of the PASM modes.

That lens is OK, but NOT the sharpest.

And if you have a UV or clear "protective" filter mounted, take it off.

Your camera CAN produce stunning, sharp images. You just have to take control of the variables and eliminate the ones that reduce your resolution.

GOOD LUCK!

JPL

Probably you would need better lens, given that you are doing everything right when taking the photos, using tripod when needed etc.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

The LENS takes the picture, the camera is just a recording device. Look to a higher quality lens as that one pre-dates the 24MP sensors and has never received high accolades for sharpness. Also, if you have a UV filter on it, take it off as it will often soften your images noticeably.

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

Tripod? ;)

This guy is shooting auto with a mid range quality zoom. If there is a filter attached then that makes it a trifecta of potential causes for the lack of sharpness.

Get the camera off the "A" and try one of the other PASM modes first, then go from there. :D

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

Yep! :thumbup:

Ched49 Loc: Pittsburgh, Pa.

Looks like you shot those during the day when it is overcast...the photo's also will look dreary. shoot again in the early morning or late evening sun, you will notice a big difference.

randik

thanks... didn't think I would get answers so fast is why I didn't hang around

(Download)


(Download)

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

cjkorb, lighting and light are critical! :thumbup:

Even more so when other factors work to limit potential image quality.

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

Check MT Shooter's and my replies above...

Also... did you shoot these through a window? That would have the same effect as shooting with a filter on... only magnified.

oldtigger Loc: Roanoke Virginia-USA

judging from your download, you are using the lens at its worst possible settings, it is misperforming as to be expected.
Now try it at normal use:

--When faced with fuzzy images --
Place camera on tripod or table edge with:
...Full manual settings, auto focus turned off, set to F 8
...lens at midrange of zoom, pointed at target 15' away
...using liveview and full magnification, focus and shoot
..if its soft, trash the lens
...if it is sharp, then
Using the same setup:
...Turn on auto focus, center spot auto focus
...press shutter far enough and long enough for focus to occur
...complete exposure
...if its sharp then fix the operator
...if its fuzzy then:
Type lens tune into the UHH search function and follow instructions:

If you still experience difficulties you have two options:
...Have a wild affair with a photographer friend or
...take up basket weaving

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

You forgot to factor in a filter or window glass...

They will rob contrast and reduce resolution like improper settings and a weak lens will, but are the easiest to fix. ;)