Focusing Distance Range - Full vs 3m-Infinity

[SD9765]

Hello, please can anyone explain the difference between the FULL and the 3m-Infinity setting on a Canon 100-400mm lens? Not sure I get the distinction to be honest? Thanks for your help!

 

[BrokenPhotography]

Quote: KenRockwell

Use the FULL setting.

If you're shooting far-away objects and are having a problem with the lens getting confused and trying to focus on close objects, the 3m - ∞ setting will prevent the lens from trying to focus any closer than 10 feet (3 meters).

Source:

Canon EF 100-400mm L IS II Review & Sample Images by Ken Rockwell

Canon EF 100-400mm L IS II Review & Sample Images by Ken Rockwell

www.kenrockwell.com

 

[Bob]

Once you've missed your shot because the camera was busy hunting for the focus point along the entire range, you'll understand what that switch is for.

 

[FrancoD]

Similar lenses from other manufacturers do the same. In your case it should reduce the focus travel by about 1/3rd by telling the lens not to focus in the 1.8 to 3m range.

 

[Mystery member]

Similar lenses from other manufacturers do the same. In your case it should reduce the focus travel by about 1/3rd by telling the lens not to focus in the 1.8 to 3m range.

I have an old MF lens (135mm) that requires about 180 degrees rotation of the focus ring to go from 1.5m to infinity, whereas 3m to infinity only requires 80 degrees.

BTW, Ken really likes that Canon lens!