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DPChallenge Forums >> Photography Discussion >> Canon Lens Clarity Questions
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 10/09/2008 06:30:27 PM · #1
Hi,

I've spent years trying to figure out how to get a super sharp photo out of my Canon 10D without spending a ton of money on lenses. I finally rented a Canon 70-200L IS USM lens and took some test shots. A couple of the images came out so sharp that I couldn't believe I took the shots! I went and bought a new version of that lens.

Now I've been going out almost every day with that lens and photographing everything interesting that I see and I have yet to come across a super sharp image as I did when I rented it. I mean, a few have been better then my non-L lenses, but nothing that just stands out and makes me go, WOW!

Does anyone have any tips with this lens? Maybe my problem might be with the camera as far as metering, focus issues, ISO, fStop & shutter settings. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Also, I just bought a 17-40L F4 wide angle lens, and I can't get anything sharp at all with it. It looks good at best.

Thanks!

The following photo: f2.8 1/2000, ISO 200, 200mm, no flash

A full resolution sample

Compared to this shot

Message edited by author 2008-10-09 19:03:44.
 10/09/2008 06:33:18 PM · #2
Can you post some examples, it will make it easier to give you some idea of what might be wrong?
 10/09/2008 07:51:12 PM · #3
Someone or something is misfocusing. Parts of the bench are very sharp, especially for having shot wide open.
 10/09/2008 07:59:47 PM · #4
You are comparing a shot at f/2.8 vs. a shot at f/8.0
The depth of field at f/2.8 will be minimal, especially at 200mm.
It's like having only 2" in front and behind the point of focus that will be sharp at f/2.8 vs. having 12" in front & behind at f/8.0 (numbers made up and used as an example only)
 10/09/2008 08:05:45 PM · #5
When I had this lens, I was frustrated at the outset. It soon became my favorite lens. What changed my results dramatically was when I changed "Picture Style" settings. I toyed with the settings until I hit it right. (I forget exactly) I do remember that basically reduced sharpness, contrast, and saturation. Not sure why this made a difference but as I say, it became my favorite lens until I acquired a 100-400 to replace it. I shoot mostly wildlife fwiw. Also note that the 1.4 extender works perfectly at least with the 5d, which increases your reach to 280. Hope this helps.
--Jim Roussos
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