LaserSoft Imaging

I am having real problems with the autofocus function of Silverfast AI with a Nikon LS-5000 and an SF-200.

If I rely on the Autofocus function it focuses to a different setting than if I use the manual focus with point function. The manual focus is much more accurate. The problem is that I don't want to have to do a manual focus each time. Is there a different setting I could use, or is this a bug with the scanner or the software?

Thanks in anticipation!
Steve

www.stevedavey.com

It likely has to do with how the focus point is chosen. Autofocus usuually needs a contrasty spot to get it right. IF the slides are low contrast then autofocus can have a tough time. THe other possibility is that the film is curved in the mounts and you are better at picking the average focus point. THe nikons, (i have a 4000) are notorious for having a limited DOF and are very sensitive to film curvature. i have had to use a modified FH3 with antinewton glass for some of my strips because the std holder could not hold the film flat enough.

Frank

Hi,
Thanks for the reply. I actually got rid of a 4000 and bought a 5000 for the self same reason. The 5000 seems to have a better depth of field, but there is a real focussing issue.

In all of these tests, I have been putting the manual focus point in the same place as the auto focus point, and using the 'auto' button in the manual focus dialog. Each time the focus is different (and more accurate) than with the auto focus ? even though it is focussing on the same spot and effectively using an autofocus setting.

The difference is quite pronounced, which is why I am wondering if it is a problem in the implementaion of the autofocus (ie a software problem) rather than a physical problem.

Hmmm, maybe I should install Nikon Scan and see if there are similar issues there.

Will let you know!

Cheers,
Steve

www.stevedavey.com

Are you using high resolution preview when you manually autofocus ?

Frank