Correct use of SA control on RF100mm Macro lens

[cbester]

When using the SA control ring should you place ring in middle position, focus and then take photo, or can you set to desired setting, then focus and take photo?

I ask as it doesn't seem intuitive to focus when you are purposely softening the lens.

Thanks

Colin

[rs-eos]

With the SA adjustment, you'll be adjusting how the out-of-focus areas (foreground and background) would be rendered.  You probably should experiment with live view to note the effects of the settings as well as to see what works best for you.

[cbester]

Yup, got that and experimentation is definite help - also have to make sure you use aperture preview to see what effect will be.

However my question still is do you focus on subject and then turn SA dial, or do you set SA dial to required setting and then focus.

~C

[FloridaDrafter]

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@cbester wrote:

Yup, got that and experimentation is definite help - also have to make sure you use aperture preview to see what effect will be.

However my question still is do you focus on subject and then turn SA dial, or do you set SA dial to required setting and then focus.

~C

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No, you don't have to focus first for the feature to work. After you have used this technique for a while, you get a feel for what effect the dial will have on your image. You just have to trust that your focus is where you want it. Focus first will give you a bit of confidence that focus is where you want it, but it's not necessary.

Newton

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

You can do either, but you typically focus first.  Then adjust SA (Spherical aberration).  The SA ring has a detent click when its centered and a lock switch.  Keep it in the middle and locked when not in use.

Turn to "+" to soften the (bokeh) focus in front of your subject

Turn to "-" to soften focus (bokeh) focus behind the subject.

The effect is most noticeable at higher aperture (lower number) and less so at lower aperture (higher numbers)

Suggest you read pages 9 and 10 of the user guide.  It explains its operation fully.

rf100f28l-macro-is-im2-eng.pdf (c-wss.com)

The SA ring actually moves the entire lens group fore or aft. Your MFD is 10.2 in.  You can use "MF" and "Av" if the lens struggles to AF.  You *can* use the SA ring during AF safely, but the camera can struggle to AF in some situations depending on the distance between the subject and background. 

**Follow RS-EOS (Ricky's) advice and practice 🙂     

[cbester]

Thanks for all the responses