A manual focus lens is a lens that allows you to focus completely manually, without the intervention of an automated system. Before the autofocus mode option was introduced, cameras could only be provided with manual control of the correct focus and settings. Now you can switch to the manual function, indicated by MF, via a switch on the camera. You can then focus with the focus ring.
Precision in detail
Because the user of a manual focus lens has complete control over the image that will be recorded, it can be accurately adapted to the environment, light incidence and the distance to the object to be photographed. All this determines the sharpness with which you capture the image. It is a precise work but can be of great value if the autofocus focuses on the wrong part of a subject and therefore does not give the desired result. With the current SLR and system cameras it is not always easy to manually get the right focus. If you have succeeded, you will learn in addition to much satisfaction about the operation of the device and how you can get the most out of your photo.
From macro photography to night photography
In macro photography, it is essential to focus accurately on the limited depth of field. Since the object to be projected is close to the photographer, it is difficult to fully focus the edges of the focal point with the autofocus function. With the manual operation of the focus ring you learn not only to distinguish an object from the background, but also how autofocus works and why it has limitations. For photography with limited light, such as during the night hours, the autofocus often has trouble to detect the correct focus point. In combination with the live view mode on your camera and a suitable tripod, you can visualize subjects manually from these nocturnal scenes.
Fixed focal length or zoom lens
Manual focus lenses are available in all shapes and sizes, mainly because manual focus in any situation, in addition to learning, can improve the quality of your photos. Of course, this depends entirely on the situation, but both the wide-angle lens and the telephoto lens offer this possibility. Moreover, both lenses are available with a fixed focal length and a zoom function. In the first case, it is important for manual focusing that you are exactly at the right distance from the subject, in the second case you must determine the distance with the zoom lens yourself.
