3
\$\begingroup\$

I recently bought a new focus screen for my D5100. I installed it without any problems. But, if I manually focus with the screen it is not correct. A picture of something 30ft away is about a foot off. The auto focus still works fine, but did I do something wrong with the focus screen?

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
\$\begingroup\$

You'll need to calibrate the positioning of your focusing screen. Usually, there are small rectangular shims which get the screen into exactly the right position. You may need to adjust these. Depending on where you bought the screen, it may have come with some. (Some cameras include shims to position the factory-installed screen, but some don't; I'm not sure of the case with the D5100.)

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
2
  • \$\begingroup\$ To amplify mattdm's answer: the focusing screen is positioned so that the light path to it is just slightly closer or further away from the lens mounting flange than the light path to the sensor is. Both light paths need to be the same distance in order for the sensor to record the same focus distance you see in the viewfinder. \$\endgroup\$
    – Michael C
    Commented Jan 15, 2015 at 1:03
  • \$\begingroup\$ In the easiest case, the focus screen has been inserted wrong side up. \$\endgroup\$
    – Imre
    Commented Jan 15, 2015 at 10:27

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.