Minimum Focus distance

[new2me]

Is the minimum focus distance for a lens the same throughout it's zoom range? It's something I hadn't given much thought to as I rarely get that close to birds, but have noticed I am zooming out excessively when I have.

 

[seriousrikk]

It depends on the lens really.

But for most, no.

 

[wyx087]

It depends on the lens. Usually the same, but some lens have macro mode, which require you to be in its longest zoom range.

My 24-105L is the same throughout.
My Tamron 70-300 1:2 macro require you to be in 250-300mm to focus closer than 1.5m.

 

[new2me]

Okay, cheers guys. I'll have a little play with mine later

 

[Bristolian]

Interesting question. I've just flipped through the manuals for the lenses I have and with the exception of my favourite Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 they all quote a constant minimum focus distance throughout the focal length range. With the 24-70 there is a variation of between 0.38 and 0.41m depending on the focal length selected - the shorter distance being in the middle of the range.

Interesting .....

 

[HoppyUK]

Interesting question. I've just flipped through the manuals for the lenses I have and with the exception of my favourite Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 they all quote a constant minimum focus distance throughout the focal length range. With the 24-70 there is a variation of between 0.38 and 0.41m depending on the focal length selected - the shorter distance being in the middle of the range.

Interesting .....

Yes, I can't think of any current lens that has a significantly different focusing distance at different ends of the zoom.

It's worth noting though that most lens markings are less than accurate, sometimes a long way out, and they're measured from the focal plane/sensor, whereas all depth of field calcs are measured from the front of the lens (makes a small difference when you're close).

 

[new2me]

It's worth noting though that most lens markings are less than accurate, sometimes a long way out, and they're measured from the focal plane/sensor, whereas all depth of field calcs are measured from the front of the lens (makes a small difference when you're close).

I was going to ask that too, but just assumed it to be so. I didn't realise the DOF calc was from the front of the lens though, which is something to consider with push/pull types I suppose.