This may seem like an uneducated question--so, here goes:
I have a Canon 400mm f2.8 non IS lens which is probably 12 years old. I have owned it for 5 or 6, and it has been handled, by me, in a very gentle manner. But, the images are not sharp and crisp anymore. I have used everything on it--5d, 5dmkII, 7d, 40d and it is not sharp anymore. The focus seems to snap to, but the images are not sharp and crisp.
What should I do? Where should I send it? I have heard about getting a camera and lens calibrated, but don't know what that means exactly! Do these things wear out? Can they be repaired?
Yes it should be sharp. And Canon can probably fix it for you. But it also depends on if it's the MKI or MKII version of that lens. The MKII version is a little bit better
Yep, they can wear to the point of needing recalibrated over time. If Canon won't service that lens any longer, try CRIS Camera in Arizona. I sent my original 400/f2.8 Mk1 lens to them and they had everything tweaked and working as new!
Thanks everybody. The lens is on its way to Midstate Camera Repair in Warwick, RI. I will be anxious to see what they find and what they can do. Will keep you posted.
Dave
In November I posted about a problem I was having with my 400 f2.8/non-IS lens. It was an older model and not taking clean, crisp, clear pictures. Upon advice of my fellow FM'ers I sent it to Midstate Camera Repair in Warwick, RI. I have had it back for a couple weeks and have had the opportunity to shoot the lens some, but not as much as I'd like. But, the good news is--they did a fantastic job! It is clear, tack sharp and I am a very happy camper. I'd recommend this shop to anyone needing a lens repair. And the price was great. They reported it had a couple loose optics in the rear of the lens which needed tightening--apparently a common problem for this version and age. I will post pictures from the lens in the next couple days. Let me know what questions you may have! And, foremost, thanks for the great advice on where to send the lens.
Dave
