Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? at DVinfo.net

Federico Perale · June 27th, 2012, 12:56 AM

Can anyone share their experiences?
I use the mk2 with a z-finder and was wondering if the supposedly much better screen of the mk3 makes it an easier job focusing, because that could be a reason for me to upgrade.

A lot? Unnoticeably?

Thanks
Fed

Charles Newcomb · June 27th, 2012, 06:55 PM

I don't notice any appreciable difference in the MK lll over the MK ll, so I still use my Hoodman CINEMA KIT PRO-Hoodman Corporation

I also use the zoom button, always. After I get focus I flip the Hoodman up and view the shot on the screen.

Charles Newcomb · June 27th, 2012, 07:02 PM

I don't notice any appreciable difference in the MK lll over the MK ll, so I still use my Hoodman CINEMA KIT PRO-Hoodman Corporation

I also use the zoom button, always. After I get focus I flip the Hoodman up and view the shot on the screen.

John Carroll · June 28th, 2012, 12:45 PM

I used to have a 60D which was impossible to focus without using the zoom, but I loved the flipout screen.
The Mark3 is a much better screen, but I do miss my flip-up screen. But same as Charles, I always do a digital zoom in to get a critical focus no matter how good the screen seems to look. Lots of times, even when I have my SmallHD monitor hooked up, I still do a quick zoom in just to be sure. Mostly the focus is right on when using the monitor, but I think it's a good habit to have anyway.

Charles W. Hull · June 28th, 2012, 10:59 PM

Another approach, the MkIII's claim to fame is its new autofocus capability - and it really is really good. With video I use the Quick Mode, and it is easy to move the spot focus point to exactly where you want in the scene - hold the shutter release or the AF button to focus - and there you are, the part of the scene you want in focus is perfectly focused. For me it's much easier and more accurate than manual focus - and I'm not using the Z finder on the MkIII.

John Carroll · June 29th, 2012, 08:11 AM

Nice tip Charles!
The AF button will even work while recording which is nice little bonus... as long as you can cut out the little flutter that happens in post.

June 27th, 2012, 12:56 AM	#1
Federico Perale Major Player Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: London Posts: 410	Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? Can anyone share their experiences? I use the mk2 with a z-finder and was wondering if the supposedly much better screen of the mk3 makes it an easier job focusing, because that could be a reason for me to upgrade. A lot? Unnoticeably? Thanks Fed

June 27th, 2012, 06:55 PM	#2
Charles Newcomb Major Player Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Salida, Colorado Posts: 561	Re: Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? I don't notice any appreciable difference in the MK lll over the MK ll, so I still use my Hoodman CINEMA KIT PRO-Hoodman Corporation I also use the zoom button, always. After I get focus I flip the Hoodman up and view the shot on the screen.

June 27th, 2012, 07:02 PM	#3
Charles Newcomb Major Player Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Salida, Colorado Posts: 561	Re: Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? I don't notice any appreciable difference in the MK lll over the MK ll, so I still use my Hoodman CINEMA KIT PRO-Hoodman Corporation I also use the zoom button, always. After I get focus I flip the Hoodman up and view the shot on the screen.

June 28th, 2012, 12:45 PM	#4
John Carroll Regular Crew Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 156	Re: Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? I used to have a 60D which was impossible to focus without using the zoom, but I loved the flipout screen. The Mark3 is a much better screen, but I do miss my flip-up screen. But same as Charles, I always do a digital zoom in to get a critical focus no matter how good the screen seems to look. Lots of times, even when I have my SmallHD monitor hooked up, I still do a quick zoom in just to be sure. Mostly the focus is right on when using the monitor, but I think it's a good habit to have anyway.

June 28th, 2012, 10:59 PM	#5
Charles W. Hull Major Player Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Canyon Country, CA Posts: 445	Re: Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? Another approach, the MkIII's claim to fame is its new autofocus capability - and it really is really good. With video I use the Quick Mode, and it is easy to move the spot focus point to exactly where you want in the scene - hold the shutter release or the AF button to focus - and there you are, the part of the scene you want in focus is perfectly focused. For me it's much easier and more accurate than manual focus - and I'm not using the Z finder on the MkIII.

June 29th, 2012, 08:11 AM	#6
John Carroll Regular Crew Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 156	Re: Easier to focus on the mk3 LCD? Nice tip Charles! The AF button will even work while recording which is nice little bonus... as long as you can cut out the little flutter that happens in post.