why so soft ?

[powell7]

hi all,
i`v got a sony 75-300mm lens which i`m happy with but have found some of the photos are coming out soft like these

could it be because i have it stoped right down ?
what could give me better results ?

also i find when the subjects moving the lens focuses fine for the first shot but as the subject moves the lens focuses right out then back in,by that time iv missed the shot any ideas anyone ?

 

[micloi]

Can you please let us know the exif data for each shot?

 

[powell7]

no1
f-5.6
1/640th
iso-100
280mm

no2
F-11
1/250th
iso-100
230mm

:shrug:

 

[micloi]

The second shot, as suspected, is blurry due to camera shake. You need a speed of, at least, 1.5 times the focal length, ideally twice, for sharp images. So the speed should have been at least 1/350" and ideally 1/500"

The first one is not too sharp as the lens is open wide.

My suggested settings for the first would be:
f/8
1/640"
iso 200

and for the second:
f/8
1/1000"
iso 200

and increase the iso, as needed, if the light is less favourable

 

[powell7]

thankyou,i`ll put that in my little book and try it next week.

 

[micloi]

Or you could also use a monopod or tripod for extra stability.

Happy shooting and if you have more questions, do ask!

Also for loosing focus, for Canons there are 2 options for AF:
One shot for static targets and AI servo for moving ones.

If there is a similar option for your Sony you must make sure to select it so that the camera tries to keep the focal point on the moving target.