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Manual focus

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Manual focus is where the photographer changes the focus of the lens-camera combination by rotating the lens. Pre autofocus SLR cameras were manual focus only, and the ease of establishing manual focus by viewing through the lens was one of the principal reasons for the establishment of SLR cameras over range-finder cameras. A ground glass or split focusing screen substantially aided manual focus.

Autofocus SLR cameras and lenses can usually be switched to manual focus, disengaging the autofocus motors. AF-S type lenses can be manually focused by twisting without first disengaging autofocus.

Few autofocus cameras are equipped with ground glass or split focusing screens, but aftermarket screens can be purchased to assist manual focus.

Some types of lens, most notably reflex lenses, also known as catadiatropic or mirror lenses, can only be designed as manual focus lenses. Most pre-autofocus lenses for the Nikon F Mount can be used on most autofocus cameras in manual focus mode, although not all cameras will be able to meter with these lenses. Most autofocus lenses can be used manually on manual focus cameras with a compatible mount.


Nikonians Photo Glossary

  • This page was last modified on 27 January 2021, at 09:41.
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