Posted by Todd Caudle on April 22, 2007 at 12:38 AM
I'm considering picking up a RRS pano head. I understand why panos work best when the camera pivots on the nodal point of a given lens. My question is, how do you know where the nodal point is on different lenses? Nodal point is dependent on focal length, correct? To those who use a RRS setup, how do you determine where to position the lens/camera on the slider? Would the nodal point on a straight 50mm, for instance, be the same as a 24-105mm lens set at 50mm? Any and all answers appreciated!
You figure it out experimentally. The effect of not rotating around the nodal point is easy to see once you know what to look for (and how to make a set up that will make it most visible.) You look through the camera and make adjustments until the error goes away. Then it's just a matter of recording/marking in such a way that you can repeat it when you need it.
I've only used my pano head with fixed focal lengths because I find it difficult to set and maintain any focal length except the extremes with a zoom. My fixed 24 mm lens is a lot better than my zoom the includes that focal length anyhow. I marked positions for my 24, 28 and 50, but the 24 is what I've used most.
I look forward to seeing some great panoramics from you soon!
Pete D.
Posted by Bill Chambers on April 22, 2007 at 8:59 AM
Ditto what Pete on the experimentation. I wish the manufacturers would indicate on the lens barrel where the point is, but alas, they don't. I have the RRS setup and really like it. What I did to "mark" it was to take a really tiny drill bit (a #60 I believe) and drill a slight indention (index marks) on the slides so that I could put the package together identically each time. I used a toothpick to insert a little daub of white paint into the indention so they would be easy to see. This way, assembly is quick and easy in the field. The only silde that needs more than one index mark is one where the body slides to adjust the lens for the nodal points of different lenses. I then drilled the same index points on my L bracket and ballhead to center the entire assembly. Didn't take long, and it makes a huge difference when you're putting the package together.
Posted by Todd Caudle on April 23, 2007 at 6:01 PM
Discussion
3 repliesI've only used my pano head with fixed focal lengths because I find it difficult to set and maintain any focal length except the extremes with a zoom. My fixed 24 mm lens is a lot better than my zoom the includes that focal length anyhow. I marked positions for my 24, 28 and 50, but the 24 is what I've used most.
I look forward to seeing some great panoramics from you soon!
Pete D.