Originally posted by KevinR Wow, you have really gotten that old legend to perform. I have achieved good sharpness out of my Tak SMC 500/4.5 (same optics), but nothing like you have achieved. Also normally a fair bit of CA as well. And a real monster to handle.
Really liked the Golden Eagles shots. Would like to know your "secrets"..!!
Thank you. The Bald Eagles in the previous post back were shot in the morning sun behind the back.
K-50 with SMC 500mm f/4.5 setup on tripod (I only shoot this lens on tripod). Settings in "M" mode. I prefocus with aperture wide open to nail it sharp,
then I close the lens to around f11 - f16 (in sunny days), then push the green button. With K-50 I try to stay bellow ISO 800, preferably ISO 400 or less.
If the ISO is high after "Green button" pushed then I open aperture one click and take another reading. Another words I like to keep aperture between
f8 - f16 if I can. Another important part is to keep exposure in the middle (using histogram). Not overexposing. You have to play with it to find the right amount. It might be different with different camera. If I need I dial few click to plus or minus in "Exposure Compensation" If you make any changes like compensation etc, make sure you push the green button before taking the shot.
Another words pushing "Green Button" and look at the data right before taking the shot and if all is OK push the trigger
. It sounds complicated, but it is really simple.
It really is an awesome lens for the money, but it need some time to master it to get sharp and color rich images.
After you using the lens for a while it will become natural to get good results. I am so used to it, it only take me a second or so the setup exposure.
I hope this help you with your lens.