Does the auto-focus fine tune offered on the enthusiast level cameras (like the D7100) offer enough adjustment range to eliminate issues such as I am experiencing? Assuming of course, that the issue is the result of typical production variation.
Yes - probably - but if I had a camera, that did the focus wrong to all my lenses at all conditions, as you describe - I would have it factory-checked instead of in-camera-finetuned. It would to me mean, that the AF-module should be physically adjusted.
I'm just guessing, but this ability to fine tune sounds like it is a firmware implementation in the camera. That seems like a low cost solution for any level camera. From what I have learned, the phase detection system is a high-tolerance arrangement involving moving parts, and when coupled with lens production variation and aging, an adjustable system makes sense.
I doubth. The D3300 uses an (old) CAM 1000 (I think it is) that is made, when sensor technology was 12MP - and the needed accuracy for the AF-module was in the same leaque. I don't think, there is a software possibility to adjust this system - only physically adjustments - and this have to be far more accurate when used for a sensor with two times the density.
Having the ability to all entry-level cameras- if I was Nikon - I would say no.
The D3300 (and a long way the D5x00) is targeted to the Point-and-shooters - not to people familiar to cameras and photography, like you. Not that it can't be used as a very exellent Tool - but it is not the deep intension.
Having abilities to change i.e focus-adjustments for the one who knows how - would mean that the million, who doesn't would go beck for warranty-repair, when they had screwed it up. That's a high cost which can't be included in the low camera-price.
Buying cheap (or cheaper) does too mean having limitations.
Regarding the frequency of occurrence, I wonder if the low frequency might not be do in part to the inability of a typical entry-level user to identify it.
I don't really believe that frequency is that high. If everybody was forced to report AF-accuracy - the number of faulties would in my opinion be very minor.
I have had four Nikon DSLR's - all consumers - and a similar number of SLR's - none of them have had AF-focus faults.
Lenses - I have only one, that gives me troubles - it's not a Nikon - it's bought used (and cheap) - and I have come to the conclusion, that it is something to the motor - not the adjustment of the glasses (not quite sure, cause the problem is temporary and rare.)
Summary: I would have Nikon looking at the camera while still under warranty, if it was mine.
Regards
BirgerH.
