Cannot manual focus with extension tubes...

luxrising · 03-14-2015, 01:52 PM

Newbie to macro extension tubes!

I just received a set of Pentax macro extension tubes, these are they: PENTAX Auto Extension Tube Set K reviews - Pentax Camera Accessory Review Database. Regardless of what lens I mount on the tubes, I cannot get any of them to focus. I've set my K-5iis to both Manual and Tav with no luck. Additionally, I was under the impression that I could use my SMC A lenses in the A setting and control aperture from the camera with these - which I cannot. I was under the impression this is why they are the "auto" version.

Any suggestion would be most appreciated!

Best,
Derek

Adam · 03-14-2015, 01:59 PM

The "auto" refers to the aperture diaphragm rather than the A contacts. You will need to put the camera in M mode, focus manually, and stop-down meter as you would with a manual lens:
https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/54-pentax-lens-articles/110657-how-use-me...k-x-k-7-a.html

luxrising · 03-14-2015, 02:04 PM

Thank you Adam.
This was helpful.

Best,
Derek

vonBaloney · 03-14-2015, 03:53 PM

The word "auto" on any older equipment means "mechanically auto" -- moving the aperture lever or pushing a pin -- and even that isn't enabled on modern bodies. Modern equipment never says "auto" because electronic connection is assumed. So ironically now "auto" means "manual".

Mistlefoot · 03-14-2015, 07:32 PM

Remember that your lenses will not focus to infinity with extension tubes. Probably something you and everyone else already knows but worth a mention in case.

**Lowell Goudge** · 03-15-2015, 05:20 AM

The other thing you may not get, if the lens mounts are painted black or anodzied , is focus confirmation. You need the lens contacts on the camera body shorted to get focus confirmation

03-14-2015, 01:52 PM	#1
luxrising Junior Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Posts: 31	Cannot manual focus with extension tubes... Newbie to macro extension tubes! I just received a set of Pentax macro extension tubes, these are they: PENTAX Auto Extension Tube Set K reviews - Pentax Camera Accessory Review Database. Regardless of what lens I mount on the tubes, I cannot get any of them to focus. I've set my K-5iis to both Manual and Tav with no luck. Additionally, I was under the impression that I could use my SMC A lenses in the A setting and control aperture from the camera with these - which I cannot. I was under the impression this is why they are the "auto" version. Any suggestion would be most appreciated! Best, Derek

03-14-2015, 01:59 PM	#2
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	The "auto" refers to the aperture diaphragm rather than the A contacts. You will need to put the camera in M mode, focus manually, and stop-down meter as you would with a manual lens: https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/54-pentax-lens-articles/110657-how-use-me...k-x-k-7-a.html 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:

03-14-2015, 02:04 PM	#3
luxrising Junior Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Posts: 31 Original Poster	Thanks! Thank you Adam. This was helpful. Best, Derek

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Macro Pentax Auto Focus Extension Tubes	pntxjack	Photographic Technique	4	06-08-2014 05:11 AM
For Sale - Sold: Pentax O-ME53, extension tubes, focus screen, adaptall	rwingsfan	Sold Items	3	01-28-2014 12:53 PM
manual lens question and extension tubes	crystax	Troubleshooting and Beginner Help	8	12-11-2010 04:22 PM
For Sale - Sold: Vivitar Manual Extension Tubes for Pentax K-Mount with Case - Excellent Condit	sarahfisch	Sold Items	3	08-26-2009 04:03 PM
For Sale - Sold: set of manual extension tubes--K mount	heatherslightbox	Sold Items	3	05-28-2008 05:00 AM

03-14-2015, 03:53 PM	#4
vonBaloney Pentaxian Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 6,029	The word "auto" on any older equipment means "mechanically auto" -- moving the aperture lever or pushing a pin -- and even that isn't enabled on modern bodies. Modern equipment never says "auto" because electronic connection is assumed. So ironically now "auto" means "manual".

03-14-2015, 07:32 PM	#5
Mistlefoot Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia Photos: Albums Posts: 328	Remember that your lenses will not focus to infinity with extension tubes. Probably something you and everyone else already knows but worth a mention in case.

03-15-2015, 05:20 AM	#6
Lowell Goudge Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Toronto Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 17,888	The other thing you may not get, if the lens mounts are painted black or anodzied , is focus confirmation. You need the lens contacts on the camera body shorted to get focus confirmation