close up filters

I purchased 4 close up filters (Camray). I realize that the extra glass does degrade the quaity of the photos but I wanted to see wha they could do. My problem is I can only get the 1x lens to focus...the others I can't get to focus manually or AF. Can they only be used with certain lenses? Certain focal lenths? Any information is appreciated. THanks

Hi,
How close are you getting to your subject? With the stronger ones you will need to be within a few inches and less.
John

I am no expert but, I have a few tips that may help you:

Remember as JohnMarshall said the stronger the filter the closer you will need to get. Also the focal length of the lens will affect the distance from the subject. The lower the focal length the closer you will need to be. So if you use a 50 1.8 (that is my favorite) you will be reaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalllll​llllllllll close before you get focused. Don't get discouraged, it takes practice. When I started LordV gave me some great advice on focusing. Move in and the image will come into focus; go a little closer to blur it; then slowly move back out. When the image comes in focus shoot! Experimenting with aperture will pay off as well. The higher the F number the more depth of field you will get. Be careful when getting to f16 or higher as you begin to loose image quality. I had to make a homemade "flash extender" as I do not have a flash unit yet. Do a search and you will find several good examples with instructions on this site. Most of all keep clicking, clicking and clicking.....it will come to you.
I found it much easier to use extension tubes! Better IQ as well.
Alan

Thanks for the tips. I have been able to get them to focus (somewhat) in manual mode but they are nowhere close to the quality I have seen in some phots on here using close up filters. Perhaps just more practice and better subjects to focus on. Perhaps the quality (Camray) is not good. As I said I just wanted to see what they could do and they were a cheap purchase on auction site. under $30.00 shipping and all.

Try stopping the lens down. Also make sure your shutter speed is fast enough to stop any blurring from camera shake. Shooting handheld at high magnification with a narrow DOF can be tricky.