D3 poor focus - Help!

Keir Aubrey

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Keir
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I've been taking lots of macro shots recently with my Nikon D3 and I think there's a problem with the focusing. I've been using manual focus to try and get the best results, but nothing is working. I have a solid tripod and I'm using mirror up.

It seems to be alright at about f11, but wide open it just produces soft results. I've been told about micro adjustments, but this surely only applies to auto focus. I've also changed lenses and this isn't the problem.

Has anyone else experienced this problem? Is it possible the camera needs further calibration? Is it a problem with the D3?

I'm going demented here, so any answers would be greatly appreciated. :(
 
Thanks Steven. I know DOF will be very limited but it should still be in focus and at the moment my images are barely in focus.
 
Thanks Steven. I know DOF will be very limited but it should still be in focus and at the moment my images are barely in focus.

What lens? Have you tried focusing using live-view zoomed in? Actually, live-view AF (contrast detection, using remote release) should give some of the best results
 
I've been using a Sigma 180 macro and just today a Nikon 105 macro. Yes, have tried live-view and always use a remote release.
 
Thanks Steven. I know DOF will be very limited but it should still be in focus and at the moment my images are barely in focus.

Barely in focus?
Either in focus or not.
Try posting some pics with exif.
Probably get a better idea.
 
If you've used live-view AF and the results are still poor; then I'm out of guesses.

An example will help. I really doubt that it's the camera if the problem is only with macro shots. And I really doubt it's those lenses unless they need AF fine tuned for macro work (unlikely it would be that significant). Those are both very good macro lenses.
 
Haven't got VR switched on have you?
 
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