Focus Ring Issues EX3
 

I recently began noticing some weird focus issues with my EX3. On a recent shoot I noticed I wasn't able to pull close up focuses like I used to and would literally have to move in order to get the shot. I examined my camera later and noticed the focus ring snaps back and forth and provided 2 different levels of focus. I never noticed this before, but now I feel like my focus is off set and I can't seem to get it back to how it was.

- Is this a normal occurrence? I'm assuming it is for the Macro functionality?

- Is there a correct focal length I should set the zoom to, in order to reset this ring correctly?

The focus ring pulls back for full manual focusing. When in the forward position you also have Manual focusing, you have to set the switch on the lens to MF but it won't have the end stops. The Macro feature does not work with the Full Manual mode (lens pulled back)

It's all in the manual, makes good bedtime reading :-)

HA! So after reading your post I looked closer at the camera and what do you know? Printed on there in white text right by the ring is MF <--- & AF/MF ---> D'oh!

Thanks! I just never noticed it before so it was sort of alarming. I've never even used AF on the camera since I bought it so maybe that's why I never switched it back and forth...

Funny, we discover new features on cameras after using them day in and day out. I try to set aside at least one day a month to refresh myself with seldom used camera options.

Kellen,
I don't know how long you've had your camera, but if your're just now noticing something as major as how the focus ring works, I can't help but wonder what else you're missing out on. You might find my 3-hour training DVD or Field Guide book a good investment.
http://www.vortexmedia.com/DVD_EX3.html
Vortex Media's XDCAM Field Guides


Doug
(Sorry for the shameless plug.)

I can back Dougs suggestion, his DVD set is a good investment, it will save you a lot of time by not having to wade through the manual pages.

Doug presents the two disc set, he is not the best looking guy I have ever seen, but he delivers the information well ;-)