Close focusing???

fyrbolt · May 16, 2007

I just bought a Sigma 17-70 macro. Where do they measure from, when they say "minimum focusing distance - 20cm/7.9 in."?

I was trying to take a close up shot of a couple of items and the lens almost touched the items (1/2 inch) and it would still focus and lock on. If I had the hood it would have touched it. Is this normal? I'm not complaining, I just didn't know what to expect.

fks · May 16, 2007

hi ray-

focusing distance is from the sensor plane. if you look at the top of your camera, you'll find a circle with a line through it. that's the sensor plane. measure 20cm from this point, and that should be the closest you can focus.

ricky

airbiscuit · May 16, 2007

Oh now I know what that circle which got a line through it means! Ah new things to learn everyday.

MParker · May 16, 2007

Working distance, the distance from the front of the lens to the subject, is important to many macro shooters. That's why the longer lenses, 150, 180, 200, etc. are preferred by many of us. I love 50, 60, 85, etc macro lenses but they present real challenges when it comes to lighting. It's easy to block your own light with these shorter lenses and flash isn't always the answer (though it usually is).

fyrbolt · May 16, 2007

Thanks FKS... That makes sense. That is some close focusing then...

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Close focusing???

fyrbolt

fks

airbiscuit

MParker

fyrbolt