Digital cameras 101

[cpr]

I am slowly moving into the digital age, have been dragging my feet too long.  I've been an old school, manual camera guy for years (Canon F-1, A-1 and FTb's).  I still like to carry a camera that can operate with a dead battery.  Now that I am (trying to) use the newer EOS autofocus cameras and lenses, I really miss the "single ring, push/pull" lenses [right/left to focus, push/pull to zoom]. When I shoot action (daughter is a cheerleader and they move up and back a lot), I don't like to use the autofocus because it justs adds another element of "lag" in the timing. Using the lens in manual focus, and changing the zoom simultaneously is really pretty impossible in fast action settings.

Does anyone know if there are manufacturers that make lenses (that would fit my 20D) that can be used in AF mode, but also can operate in the push/pull mode when in Manual Focus?  I know that Canon does not make this type of lens (anymore?).  Maybe they just can't combine these functions and maintain the ability to be an AF lens.  Maybe I should be looking for manual focus lenses with the Canon EF (vs. FD) mount (if such a thing exists).  Just curious if this has been an issue for anyone else, and even better, if yes, what solutions you may have found!

[bdery]

Hi,

I personnally own one "one touch" zoom lens like those you describe, a Vivitar series 1 from 30 years ago. I can understand why you like this design, for people using manual focus lenses it's really a good way to operate the lens.

This design is currently not used on any modern lens. current lenses are designed for autofocus, so the design is not suitable for AF lenses. The only lenses using the one touch design are older lenses, and I do not know if they can be used with Canon DSLR cameras. I know that Canon changed some aspects of their mount, and I'm not familiar enough with it to comment more.

The only company that has kept full support for all their lenses is Pentax, the one I'm using. That is why I can use my older lens.

Modern lenses are generally designed almost exclusively for AF, the throw of the focus ring is very short, making AF faster but MF much more difficult. Macro lenses are an exception, they usually have a long throw. That being said, AF is quite reliable usually, but I know many users who feel like you and prefer to use MF. Canon decided not to go that way, but to push their new technologies. The technology is good, but to each his own. Owning several Mf lenses, I understand your feeling.

You might wish to experiment with AF in non-critical situations, to see if you feel you can adapt to AF. Maybe you can, maybe not, that's your decision.

[ShutterbugGail]

Welcome to the digital world! I went all digital about six years ago, with no regrets!

You may find these comments useful:

CANON: The FD mount fits all manual focus Canons from 1970 forward; the EF mount fits all EOS series autofocus models. These mounts are NOT interchangeable; adapters are available but I would avoid them. Canon EOS film and digital SLRs can, on the other hand, accept almost anything BUT a Canon FD lens with adapters: Nikon, OM, Pentax M42 Screw, and Leica SLR lenses can all be adapted.

Source: http://rick_oleson.tripod.com/index-99.html