How to read a MTF Chart

[condyk]

Ok ... as we plunge ever deeper into the realm of photography, way beyond the green box, we encounter all kinds of stuff that may be valuable or could just be a huge waste of time.

What about MFT Charts? Do they add any extra value to reading lots of user reviews and trying equipment out? If so, what do they tell us and how do we read them?

[RockOne]

Try and get a hold of this book. It is a great soucre of all the tech info on lenses including MTF charts etc and how they work.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=12218&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

[condyk]

Thanks RockOne ... but I know that I'd never read the book even if I got it :D

Just after a nice simple breakdown.

[Curtis N]

This lens glossary from Canon's web site is a veritable dictionary of optical terms. If it's not in one of the sticky FAQ threads, it should be.
http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=GlossaryAct&fcategoryid=216

It contains an explanation of MTF charts and how to read them, in layman's terms.

[nitsch]

Hi Dave, here is a very brief summary of how to read Sigma's MTF charts from their UK website:

http://www.sigma-imaging-uk.com/lenses/mtfcharts/mtf_chart_guide.htm

I have never really looked at these MTF charts so I don't know if they vary between manufacturers or whether there is a standard that they all adhere to.

Hope this helps. :)

[RockOne]

Looks like that lens glossary is the same as in the book. The book is worth it though - just to look at the pics of lenes :-) :-) !

[condyk]

Thanks folks

I think I have enough to go on ... now I need to lie down in a dark room and think about it :lol: I'm sure it's a 'suddenly clicks into place' thing.

[Sean-Mcr]

I'm glad you asked about this Dave, i really should have looked in to it more by now.

[lordjim]

Great thread Condyk. Very interesting question and great answers from the others. I learned a lot this morning again.:D

[LightRules]

MTF charts are very important and helpful; they are also one of the few OBJECTIVE standards for assessing a given lens. This article is one of the best: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/understanding-series/understanding-mtf.shtml

[condyk]

MTF charts are very important and helpful; they are also one of the few OBJECTIVE standards for assessing a given lens. This article is one of the best: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/understanding-series/understanding-mtf.shtml

Ok, after lying down for a while this looks like a suitabe article to graduate onto with at least some basics behind me. Nice one :D I think I get it ...

[ed2day]

They are an attempt to be objective. But keep in mind they are the product of a computer model so are capable of being manipulated however the mfr. sees fit. I do think they are useful though, just remember the limitations.