R2D2
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Re: Picture sharpness on Canon M6 ii with Tamron 100-400mm
Polisky wrote:
Hi everyone!
I'm trying to increase the quality of my bird photography as I'd like to print large despite cropping pictures. I've been shooting for a few years and got a new Tamron telephoto lens recently. While I'm generally quite happy with it (especially compared to my previous budget lens), I find the sharpness of my photos not quite up to scratch.
A few days ago I shot some pictures of a kingfisher which I expected to be sharper - I have included two below with different ISO-shutter speed combinations in case it makes a difference (btw, not sure if it is possible to zoom in on the pictures, otherwise I can provide more cropped versions).
It was relatively bright, I was using a monopod, the bird was around 25-30 meters away from me, and I used spot AF using the back-button.
What are your thoughts? Is it my technique or the lens? I've seen others take very sharp photos with this lens on this forum, so wondering whether I could improve my pictures - would the Tamron tap-in console offer some options here?
I look forward to hearing what you think!
I have to thank you for posting samples and EXIF!
There are a ton of different factors that can have an effect on sharpness. I agree with the others that some careful testing can help to eliminate many of them. If you suspect your lens, then test it under controlled conditions for both ultimate sharpness and autofocus accuracy. Do you have a filter on your lens? Best to remove it unless there’s a specific hazard.
I use Spot AF exclusively on the M6ii (Servo AF with the back button). Unlike the other poster, I do keep Continuous AF disabled, as I like to lock focus at various times. I also like to pre-focus at about the distance that I anticipate my subjects to appear at. This really helps with initial AF acquisition speed.
BTW, BIFs with the smaller birds can be nearly impossible even when using the latest techno-wizardry out there (believe me, I know! ). You might get a couple of clear frames if the bird stays within the depth of field (and it’s far enough away). Otherwise, just keep trying!
Holler back with your lens testing results. Best of luck!
R2