No picture unless in focus?

varnco · 06-09-2007, 06:46 PM

Okay, I know this is probably a stretch, but worth an ask.

I am using a 85mm 1.9 M42 Takumar lens.

The focus indicator works with this camera (amazingly). The lens though, has a very shallow depth of field, and am usually missing the focus.

Is there a way the camera won't release the shutter unless the object is in focus?

Donald · 06-09-2007, 07:41 PM

if I understand your double negative...

Change to AFC in the setup menu.

silverbullet · 06-09-2007, 08:36 PM

Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock.

Adam · 06-10-2007, 01:51 AM

Originally posted by Donald

if I understand your double negative...

Change to AFC in the setup menu.

Confusing, but...

It actually has to be AFS. AFC allows continuous shooting even if the subject is out of focus.

Originally posted by silverbullet

Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock.

If you have a K10D or a *ist D, there will be a switch with all 3 settings (AFS, AFC, MF). All other Pentax DSLRs have the AF type as a menu option.

Adam
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varnco · 06-10-2007, 10:30 AM

k100 is what I have (sorry I should have posted that in my original post)

I have AFS in the menu and AFC, and then I have the AF/MF swich on the front of the camera.

I have treid AFS in the menu with the switch in AF mode and MF mode via the switch. Both let me take pictures when the image is out of focus - I have proof :-(

Jonas B · 06-10-2007, 10:48 AM

Originally posted by varnco

k100 is what I have (sorry I should have posted that in my original post)

I have AFS in the menu and AFC, and then I have the AF/MF swich on the front of the camera.

I have treid AFS in the menu with the switch in AF mode and MF mode via the switch. Both let me take pictures when the image is out of focus - I have proof :-(

Sound strange. If the K100D works like the other models this shouldn't happen with the camera set to Af and AF-S. Now the focus confirmation light (allows for the picture to be taken) isn't that precise. Maybe you have to do some focus training?
Or: Is the lens really bad? Or: Are you confusing a shallow depth of field (DOF) with "out of focus"? Set the camera to a tripod or at something steady. Aim it at something with a pattern on it and angled about 45 degrees to the sensor plane. Focus and take a picture making sure you get no camera shake. Is the picture sharp anywhere at all? Experiment a little and try to see in the viewfinder what that is in focus and what the picture looks like.

Adam · 06-10-2007, 11:10 AM

Originally posted by Jonas B

Or: Are you confusing a shallow depth of field (DOF) with "out of focus"? Set the camera to a tripod or at something steady. Aim it at something with a pattern on it and angled about 45 degrees to the sensor plane. Focus and take a picture making sure you get no camera shake. Is the picture sharp anywhere at all? Experiment a little and try to see in the viewfinder what that is in focus and what the picture looks like.

Exactly- even if the lens is in focus, your photo may be blurred due to low light, shaking, slow shutter speed, wide aperture, or any combination of these. The camera doesn't know the outcome of the photo until after it is taken, and thus you cannot guarantee that all photos will be sharp!

Adam
PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide | Site Help | My Photography)

PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

roy · 06-10-2007, 11:31 AM

Originally posted by silverbullet

Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock.

right on the money.
it's called-- focus trap..

varnco · 06-10-2007, 11:31 AM

I'll try the suggestions, but not sure how they apply to my original question that started this thread:

Can I set the camera so it won't let me take a picture unless the camera thinks the image is in focus.

I am using an M42 mount lens, not a AF lens.

Thanks again!

Adam · 06-10-2007, 01:37 PM

Originally posted by varnco

I'll try the suggestions, but not sure how they apply to my original question that started this thread:

Can I set the camera so it won't let me take a picture unless the camera thinks the image is in focus.

I am using an M42 mount lens, not a AF lens.

Thanks again!

The lens type doesn't matter- setting your K100 to AF.S should to the trick!

varnco · 06-10-2007, 04:59 PM

My setup:

M42 Super Takumar 85MM 1.9 lens with a adapter to mount it on Pentax k100D

AFS is set
AF Button (on side of camera is set)
I manually focus out of focus, and I can shoot all day with pictures out of focus - completely out of focus. No focus trap going on here.

Now, inside the viewfinder, at the bottom, it indicates MF in green, regardless what position the dial is set (P, TV, AV, M)

What am I doing wrong?

Jonas B · 06-10-2007, 05:35 PM

Originally posted by varnco

My setup:

M42 Super Takumar 85MM 1.9 lens with a adapter to mount it on Pentax k100D

AFS is set
AF Button (on side of camera is set)
I manually focus out of focus, and I can shoot all day with pictures out of focus - completely out of focus. No focus trap going on here.

Now, inside the viewfinder, at the bottom, it indicates MF in green, regardless what position the dial is set (P, TV, AV, M)

What am I doing wrong?

That's a tricky one. It really should work. The only thing I come to think of is this: Does the lens cover the electric contacts on the lens mount? Maybe they don't and then you have to fix this:
Cut yourself a piece of aluminimum foil, suitably shaped, attach the lens placing the foil at the contacts on the camera. Now it should work.

2 cents,

FotoPete · 06-10-2007, 07:12 PM

Actually you need to be in the Manual Focus setting, otherwise the camera refuses to take your photo unless you've achieved what the camera deems is focus.

varnco · 06-10-2007, 10:38 PM

Quote:

Actually you need to be in the Manual Focus setting, otherwise the camera refuses to take your photo unless you've achieved what the camera deems is focus.

That's what I am trying to achieve, but I can't me camera to work.

Yes, the lens is fully on, contacting the "dots" on the camera body. The adapter is the one that has the small flange, not the larger flange.

I'll try the aluminum.

Can someone suggest a comparable autofocus lens? I've been considering the 77 limited, but it's a chunk of $$

FotoPete · 06-11-2007, 10:20 AM

Ok, on the side of the lens mount is the AF-MF Switch. Check that.

06-09-2007, 06:46 PM	#1
varnco Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Albums Posts: 100	No picture unless in focus? Okay, I know this is probably a stretch, but worth an ask. I am using a 85mm 1.9 M42 Takumar lens. The focus indicator works with this camera (amazingly). The lens though, has a very shallow depth of field, and am usually missing the focus. Is there a way the camera won't release the shutter unless the object is in focus?

06-10-2007, 10:30 AM	#5
varnco Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Albums Posts: 100 Original Poster	Confused k100 is what I have (sorry I should have posted that in my original post) I have AFS in the menu and AFC, and then I have the AF/MF swich on the front of the camera. I have treid AFS in the menu with the switch in AF mode and MF mode via the switch. Both let me take pictures when the image is out of focus - I have proof :-(

06-10-2007, 01:37 PM	#10
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	Originally posted by varnco I'll try the suggestions, but not sure how they apply to my original question that started this thread: Can I set the camera so it won't let me take a picture unless the camera thinks the image is in focus. I am using an M42 mount lens, not a AF lens. Thanks again! The lens type doesn't matter- setting your K100 to AF.S should to the trick! Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

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06-09-2007, 07:41 PM	#2
Donald Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Toronto Posts: 329	if I understand your double negative... Change to AFC in the setup menu.

06-09-2007, 08:36 PM	#3
silverbullet Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Edmonton Alberta Posts: 212	Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock.

06-10-2007, 01:51 AM	#4
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	Originally posted by Donald if I understand your double negative... Change to AFC in the setup menu. Confusing, but... It actually has to be AFS. AFC allows continuous shooting even if the subject is out of focus. Originally posted by silverbullet Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock. If you have a K10D or a ist D, there will be a switch with all 3 settings (AFS, AFC, MF). All other Pentax DSLRs have the AF type as a menu option. Adam* PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

06-10-2007, 10:48 AM	#6
Jonas B Inactive Account Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Göteborg, Sweden Posts: 810	Originally posted by varnco k100 is what I have (sorry I should have posted that in my original post) I have AFS in the menu and AFC, and then I have the AF/MF swich on the front of the camera. I have treid AFS in the menu with the switch in AF mode and MF mode via the switch. Both let me take pictures when the image is out of focus - I have proof :-( Sound strange. If the K100D works like the other models this shouldn't happen with the camera set to Af and AF-S. Now the focus confirmation light (allows for the picture to be taken) isn't that precise. Maybe you have to do some focus training? Or: Is the lens really bad? Or: Are you confusing a shallow depth of field (DOF) with "out of focus"? Set the camera to a tripod or at something steady. Aim it at something with a pattern on it and angled about 45 degrees to the sensor plane. Focus and take a picture making sure you get no camera shake. Is the picture sharp anywhere at all? Experiment a little and try to see in the viewfinder what that is in focus and what the picture looks like.

06-10-2007, 11:10 AM	#7
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	Originally posted by Jonas B Or: Are you confusing a shallow depth of field (DOF) with "out of focus"? Set the camera to a tripod or at something steady. Aim it at something with a pattern on it and angled about 45 degrees to the sensor plane. Focus and take a picture making sure you get no camera shake. Is the picture sharp anywhere at all? Experiment a little and try to see in the viewfinder what that is in focus and what the picture looks like. Exactly- even if the lens is in focus, your photo may be blurred due to low light, shaking, slow shutter speed, wide aperture, or any combination of these. The camera doesn't know the outcome of the photo until after it is taken, and thus you cannot guarantee that all photos will be sharp! Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

06-10-2007, 11:31 AM	#8
roy Inactive Account Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: D/FW area, Tx. Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,710	Originally posted by silverbullet Set the AF/MF switch to AF. Manual focus lenses will work as always, but the shutter will not release unless the camera achieves a focus lock. right on the money. it's called-- focus trap..

06-10-2007, 04:59 PM	#11
varnco Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Albums Posts: 100 Original Poster	My setup: M42 Super Takumar 85MM 1.9 lens with a adapter to mount it on Pentax k100D AFS is set AF Button (on side of camera is set) I manually focus out of focus, and I can shoot all day with pictures out of focus - completely out of focus. No focus trap going on here. Now, inside the viewfinder, at the bottom, it indicates MF in green, regardless what position the dial is set (P, TV, AV, M) What am I doing wrong?

06-10-2007, 05:35 PM	#12
Jonas B Inactive Account Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Göteborg, Sweden Posts: 810	Originally posted by varnco My setup: M42 Super Takumar 85MM 1.9 lens with a adapter to mount it on Pentax k100D AFS is set AF Button (on side of camera is set) I manually focus out of focus, and I can shoot all day with pictures out of focus - completely out of focus. No focus trap going on here. Now, inside the viewfinder, at the bottom, it indicates MF in green, regardless what position the dial is set (P, TV, AV, M) What am I doing wrong? That's a tricky one. It really should work. The only thing I come to think of is this: Does the lens cover the electric contacts on the lens mount? Maybe they don't and then you have to fix this: Cut yourself a piece of aluminimum foil, suitably shaped, attach the lens placing the foil at the contacts on the camera. Now it should work. 2 cents,

06-10-2007, 07:12 PM	#13
FotoPete Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Toronto Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,774	Actually you need to be in the Manual Focus setting, otherwise the camera refuses to take your photo unless you've achieved what the camera deems is focus.

06-10-2007, 10:38 PM	#14
varnco Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Albums Posts: 100 Original Poster	Quote: Actually you need to be in the Manual Focus setting, otherwise the camera refuses to take your photo unless you've achieved what the camera deems is focus. That's what I am trying to achieve, but I can't me camera to work. Yes, the lens is fully on, contacting the "dots" on the camera body. The adapter is the one that has the small flange, not the larger flange. I'll try the aluminum. Can someone suggest a comparable autofocus lens? I've been considering the 77 limited, but it's a chunk of $$

06-11-2007, 10:20 AM	#15
FotoPete Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Toronto Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,774	Ok, on the side of the lens mount is the AF-MF Switch. Check that.