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Photography Question 

Wayne Turk 		 

Teleconverters


I would like some information on Teleconverter. My understanding is that when one uses a Teleconverter ones looses one F stop. Does this mean if I use a 180mm f2.8 lens with 2X teleconverter it will be equal to a 360mm f3.8 lens ? or is it a 360mm f5.6 lens, and if so, would this be better then using a 300mm f4.0 lens with-out a teleconveter?

Thank You
Wayne


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September 16, 2005

 

Michael H. Cothran 		  There are two basic strengths of tele-converters available today - 1.4X or 1.5X, and 2X.
The 1.4/1.5X variety lose ONE stop of light. The 2X version loses TWO stops.
In reference to your 180/2.8 lens, this equates to -
1. 1.4X = 252mm/f4 lens
2. 1.5X = 270mm/f4 lens
3. 2X = 360mm/f5.6 lens

Teleconverters run the gamut from just plain bad to pretty darn good. The dedicated versions (those made for use on a specific lens) are the best of the bunch. I've owned some cheap ones, and a couple of good Nikon versions. I believe they are often worth the expense, if you only need them on occasion, or if bulk and weight are issues.

Owning a teleconverter is a compromise.

Plus side -
1. It is far cheaper than an equally longer lens.
2. It is lighter weight, and takes up less space.

Down side -
1. Seldom, if ever, do they perform as well as a quality lens of similar focal length.
2. They lose light (as stated, one stop or two stops).

FYI - you don't need to worry about metering as long as you use your in-camera meter. It will automatically compensate for the loss of light.

Michael H. Cothran
www.mhcphoto.net


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September 16, 2005

 

Samuel Smith 		  again,thank you michael.


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September 16, 2005

 

Bob Cammarata 		 
 
  Rattler
Rattler
Nikkor MF 180 ED, TC-201 teleconverter, 36 mm extension tube, tripod-mounted.

Bob Cammarata

  
 
Wayne,
Judging by your question, I'm assuming you have a Nikkor 180 2.8.
If this is true, a Nikon TC-201 (2x) converter works well with that lens.
You will lose 2 stops of light as Michael describes but the loss in image quality will be minimal when using that combination. Just be sure that your focus is right on and that you use a tripod or other firm support.
(I've used my MF 180 2.8 ED Nikkor with the 2X hand-held in bright sun at ASA 100, but I had to shoot wide open to get anything worth keeping.)

The attached photo was shot just recently using a sturdy tripod for support.


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September 17, 2005

 
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