Shooting insects at DVinfo.net

David Phillips · July 18th, 2004, 02:29 PM

I've recently started shooting insects as part of an ongoing project using the XL1s, Canon EF adapter and a selection of 35mm lenses.
The results are nothing short of stunning except for one small problem.

D.O.F. is about half an inch even stopping down the lenses to f11 and f16.
There is very little adjustment needed on the focus ring which sometimes makes it difficult to focus accurately.

Has anyone shot extreme close-up using this kit and what lens would you suggest with a focus ring that offers more movement.
Regards

Jeff Donald · July 18th, 2004, 03:20 PM

The Canon 50mm and 100mm macro may offer a little more adjustment in the focus, but not a lot. It just takes a lot of practice. You might also benefit from using a monitor in the field to aid in focusing.

Mark Williams · July 18th, 2004, 03:41 PM

You probably already know this, but try shooting early in the morning. Insects are very lethargic then making focusing much easier.

David Phillips · July 18th, 2004, 05:03 PM

Thanks lads.
I've never used a monitor. Are you talking about something that sits in the hot-shoe. Do they really aid focussing?
After 4 years practice with the XL viewfinder I dont have any difficulty.

July 18th, 2004, 02:29 PM	#1
David Phillips Regular Crew Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Norwich Norfolk UK Posts: 112	Shooting insects I've recently started shooting insects as part of an ongoing project using the XL1s, Canon EF adapter and a selection of 35mm lenses. The results are nothing short of stunning except for one small problem. D.O.F. is about half an inch even stopping down the lenses to f11 and f16. There is very little adjustment needed on the focus ring which sometimes makes it difficult to focus accurately. Has anyone shot extreme close-up using this kit and what lens would you suggest with a focus ring that offers more movement. Regards __________________ David Phillips

July 18th, 2004, 03:20 PM	#2
Jeff Donald Warden Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Clearwater, FL Posts: 8,287	The Canon 50mm and 100mm macro may offer a little more adjustment in the focus, but not a lot. It just takes a lot of practice. You might also benefit from using a monitor in the field to aid in focusing. __________________ Jeff Donald Carpe Diem Search DVinfo.net for quick answers \| Where to Buy? From the best in the business: DVinfo.net sponsors

July 18th, 2004, 05:03 PM	#4
David Phillips Regular Crew Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Norwich Norfolk UK Posts: 112	Thanks lads. I've never used a monitor. Are you talking about something that sits in the hot-shoe. Do they really aid focussing? After 4 years practice with the XL viewfinder I dont have any difficulty. __________________ David Phillips

July 18th, 2004, 03:41 PM	#3
Mark Williams Trustee Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Deep South, U.S. Posts: 1,526	You probably already know this, but try shooting early in the morning. Insects are very lethargic then making focusing much easier.