I don't know how to describe this lens issue

flysi3000 wrote:

I have a Canon 7D and a 70-200 f/4 IS L, and lately (well, at least since around the start of the pandemic) I've been noticing that I can't shoot anything sharp with it for the life of me. But it seems like more than just being out of focus. In fact, images look more like something from a Holga or one of those toy cameras with deliberate irregularities.

This image is a good example of the issue.

Anyone seen anything similar, and have an idea as to the cause?

Canon 7D / 1/3200s / f4 / ISO 800

When I used the same lens on my 90D I had similar issues, I changed the Focus Point.. Set your camera/Lens up on a solid surface, use the timer and see how the image comes out.. If that's not in focus, check to see if Focus is an issue with other Canon Lenses, depending on the result it might mean a trip to the Canon Mother Ship ~ possibly both Camera & Lens..   L

pixseal wrote:

flysi3000 wrote:

I have a Canon 7D and a 70-200 f/4 IS L, and lately (well, at least since around the start of the pandemic) I've been noticing that I can't shoot anything sharp with it for the life of me. But it seems like more than just being out of focus. In fact, images look more like something from a Holga or one of those toy cameras with deliberate irregularities.

This image is a good example of the issue.

Anyone seen anything similar, and have an idea as to the cause?

My 70-200 f/4 IS L suddenly developed a similar problem. I could not get a sharp image even when focusing manually. I sent it to Canon USA for repair and they fixed it for $200 (in 2013).

hi Dave, did you ask canon what the issue was--and what was their answer?

flysi3000 wrote:

I have a Canon 7D and a 70-200 f/4 IS L, and lately (well, at least since around the start of the pandemic) I've been noticing that I can't shoot anything sharp with it for the life of me. But it seems like more than just being out of focus. In fact, images look more like something from a Holga or one of those toy cameras with deliberate irregularities.

This image is a good example of the issue.

Anyone seen anything similar, and have an idea as to the cause?

it is definitely the focus! i would place the camera on a tripod in front of a brick wall and try to focus the the camera using different focal length and see what kind of result. if still not focused, i'd contact canon repair shot and consult with them about the issue.

Canon 7D / 1/3200s / f4 / ISO 800

pixseal wrote:

1Dx4me wrote:

pixseal wrote:

flysi3000 wrote:

I have a Canon 7D and a 70-200 f/4 IS L, and lately (well, at least since around the start of the pandemic) I've been noticing that I can't shoot anything sharp with it for the life of me. But it seems like more than just being out of focus. In fact, images look more like something from a Holga or one of those toy cameras with deliberate irregularities.

This image is a good example of the issue.

Anyone seen anything similar, and have an idea as to the cause?

My 70-200 f/4 IS L suddenly developed a similar problem. I could not get a sharp image even when focusing manually. I sent it to Canon USA for repair and they fixed it for $200 (in 2013).

hi Dave, did you ask canon what the issue was--and what was their answer?

I was on a hike and using that lens and the problem started suddenly. I don't recall impacting the lens.

ok, pixseal, that explains it...your lens had decentering issue--it can happen to any lens! i had this lens and loved it, it is one of the best canon makes. i lost mine in a park but replaced it with a new canon 100400 II at the time and never looked back. i am getting the itch for a 70-200 f4.0 IS again, and i am very close to get a copy. it is a great small tele lens for travel, producing some high quality photos! good luck.