Ugly Hedgehog - Photography Forum
Home Active Topics Newest Pictures Search Login Register
Main Photography Discussion
problem with auto focus in the cold?
Apr 12, 2012 19:33:11   #
Missy
 
I have been experiencing an auto focus problem with my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 lens outside in the colder weather. It will work for about an hour then quit auto focusing. I'm guessing its the colder temps but not sure. It's about 40 degrees. Anyone experiencing problems with this lens?

Reply
Apr 12, 2012 21:17:54   #
Iowegan
 
Check your specs on the sheet(?) that came with it, and find the temp ranges it's designed to safely operate in.

Almost all lubrications' viscosity goes up when temps go down.

I'd guessing, it might be current overload the micro-controller internal to the lens is sensing and stops the motor before damage is incurred.

$0.02

Contact Sigma about it, and report the issue to them, immediately. They're very good at customer satisfaction.

Reply
Apr 12, 2012 21:31:05   #
MT Shooter Loc: Montana
 
I have used my Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 as low as -10 degrees and it has performed well for me. How old is your lens? Could it have gotten moisture inside it at some time?
Also, the longer you are out in the cold, the slower your battery will operate the AF function. Fresh batteries in the pocket are key to good cold weather photography. I would suspect the battery is the issue more than the lens.

Reply
 
 
Apr 12, 2012 23:22:38   #
Festina Lente Loc: Florida & Missouri
 
I agree with MT. Battery performance is the likely cause. Swap one from your warmest pocket every 15 or 30 minutes depending on temperature. The colder, the more often.

Reply
Apr 13, 2012 10:39:03   #
DK Loc: SD
 
MT Shooter wrote:
I have used my Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 as low as -10 degrees and it has performed well for me. How old is your lens? Could it have gotten moisture inside it at some time?
Also, the longer you are out in the cold, the slower your battery will operate the AF function. Fresh batteries in the pocket are key to good cold weather photography. I would suspect the battery is the issue more than the lens.


Exactly what I would have said, except for the moisture (I never thought of that). Battery drain in cold is one of the biggest problems we face when shooting in cold weather. Always keep some batteries in a pocket against your body where they will be warm.

Reply
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.
Main Photography Discussion
UglyHedgehog.com - Forum
Copyright 2011-2024 Ugly Hedgehog, Inc.