Self portrait focusing problems - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro

04/12/2007 02:05:24 PM · #1

I have my 50mm macro lens on.
and when I shoot in auto mode, everything works fine.
But when it in full manual mode, it doesn't seem to want to focus.
it just keeps zooming in and out.

I was hoping to get some close up macro type pictures of my lovely skin!!!!!
Or eye.
Or anything.
Anyone have any tips on how to get good close focus on something when you can't see TTL?
Oh yeah, the camera is mounted on a tripod and I'm using a remote control.

Thanks a lot.

Spork99

OM System OM-1

04/12/2007 02:16:25 PM · #2

Use something else to focus on, like a light stand or a chair etc. Once the camera is focused, switch it to MF, move the object and replace it with you.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120 f/4 S

04/12/2007 02:27:53 PM · #3

But that's no good for an up close picture of say, my eye.
Thanks for the suggestion though.

bassbone

Nikon Z8

04/12/2007 02:29:55 PM · #4

You may be trying to take a picture with the camera too close to the object of interest. If you are too close to the object - it cannot lock a focus and will cycle in and out.

Originally posted by UNCLEBRO:

But that's no good for an up close picture of say, my eye.
Thanks for the suggestion though.

lowonenergy

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

04/12/2007 02:38:53 PM · #5

You have enough light around? That could be a issue

Spork99

OM System OM-1

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro

04/12/2007 04:10:44 PM · #6

Originally posted by UNCLEBRO:

But that's no good for an up close picture of say, my eye.
Thanks for the suggestion though.

It does indeed work. You just need to place something where your eye will be and focus on that. I've used the technique myself to take macros of my own eyes.

You'll also need to stop way down to get any kind of DOF which means that you'll need a flash or strobe of some sort.

04/12/2007 04:32:50 PM · #7

I guess so?
It's a macro lens, so I know I can get close with it.
But maybe it just needs to be manually focused when it is so close?

Originally posted by pccjrose:

You may be trying to take a picture with the camera too close to the object of interest. If you are too close to the object - it cannot lock a focus and will cycle in and out.

Message edited by author 2007-04-12 16:33:50.