How can I tell if my lens is sharp or not?

StRoRo · #1 (**permalink**) 13-06-2010, 11:01 AM

My current setup is a Canon 50D and a Canon 100-400 L IS (the pump) and Im not too sure if the lens is sharp or not.

This is my first camera and lens so I have nothing to really compare it to, and when I was wowed with it in the first few weeks my attitude seems to be very meh!! and not impressed. Maybe even a little worried.

Is there a way I can test the sharpness of the lens? Or if I can host a full RAW pic would some one mind downloading it and telling me if seems OK to you or not.

Stuart.

Jim Ford · #2 (**permalink**) 13-06-2010, 04:37 PM

I've P.M'd you, Stuart!

Jim

Wizmatt · #3 (**permalink**) 14-06-2010, 05:44 PM

Try to rule out any other possibilities such as camera/subject movement, check the apertures as images can look soft at either extreme. Then see if you can find out if the camera is back/front focusing or the lens is actually soft. Some cameras have a micro adjust feature where you can finetune the autofocus, I think the 50D does.

Hope this helps.

nigel_b · #4 (**permalink**) 14-06-2010, 05:52 PM

Also try it without the filter attached...

Dont forget what the pros say, only amateurs worry about sharpness.

You should be able to do a mirror-up shot to minimise vibrations as well.