DSLR vs Micro 3/4

[gorally]

I have a Nikon D300 and a Panasonic GF1. I used the Nikon Micro 105mm 2.8 for the D300 and Leica DG 45mm 2.8 Macro for the GF1 to take some close up of my tank. However, I found the D300 focus is way off compare to the GF1. I know both cameras' focus are well calibrated. However, the focus through the 3/4 inches glass from the D300 seems to be off. Will that be something to do with the distance from the lens to the sensor of my GF1 is much shorter than the D300? Anyone has similar experience?

 

[BlueCorn]

If your camera isn't focusing right, and you're using it properly, it should be sent in for service.

That said, if you're on a fully automatic mode, the camera may be deciding where to focus within the scene and that may or may not be what you intend.

 

[gorally]

Doug,

I tried both auto and manual mode. It looks in focus in the view finder but the photo still blury. The focus is right on if I show anything else excpet through the aquarium glass. I also took the advise to shoot at 90 degree to the glass surface.

 

[BlueCorn]

That isn't a focus problem, that's distortion from the aquarium glass or you're closer than the minimum focus of the lens.

For the Nikon, that distance is 1' for the GF1 (with that lens, depending on the switch position) is about half that. In other words, with the camera 6" from your subject, it'll be in focus on the GF1 but not on the Nikon.

Make sense?

 

[gorally]

Ok.. I got it. The Leica is 6" so it make sense. Will give that a try again. Thanks.

 

[swjim]

If you want to get closer than your current MFD you can also look into getting yourself some extension tubes.