Focusing Screens

Once you peek through the viewfinder of a single lens reflex (SLR), the shot you will observe is focused on the screen. When you speak of Nikon, the standard focusing screens of its cameras are referred to as “B.” However, there are a lot of landscape enthusiasts who prefer to employ “E.” The two focus screens are similar but what separates “E” is that it has an additional grid appearing like tic- tac- toe which is not found in “B.” This feature is important in order to obtain proper framing as this focusing screen will help prevent dilemmas of photos that are not correctly aligned. The question now is, how do you replace the focus screen?

Before proceeding to the proper method, remember not all cameras have focusing screens that can be replaced. The latest models from Nikon such as D- series and F- series have focus screens that can be substituted with a new one. However, the likes of D200, D70 and D50 do not. In order for you to find if the focusing screen of your equipment can be changed, browse over the manual. If you are tired reading through the booklet especially that you are not into the technical aspect, do not hesitate to inquire from the sales agent where you purchased the gadget. This approach will allow you to carefully maintain the focus screen.

When you purchase “E” focusing screens, you will be surprised because no instructions indicated. However, there is the availability of the manual so do not be completely anxious with the situation. As you browse over the booklet, you will learn that there are brief descriptions on the proper method of replacing focus screens. The details though may be lacking in more explanation while the illustrations are not even enough to answer your inquiries. If that is the case, you should already approach an expert who is well- versed in the technicalities of a camera so you can correctly substitute the old focusing screen to a new one.

In replacing focusing screens, make sure you have tweezers, blower and luope. If you lack any of these tools, do not expect that you can properly substitute the old focus screens with a new one. If ever you can, the result will not be favorable which can be determined when you begin to take some shots with your camera. Repeating the method will not only be a waste of time but can even be dangerous considering that the focusing screen is highly delicate. It is the reason why you should only hold the corners of a focus screen so that your fingerprints will not appear on the glass.

Once you have the tools ready, find a work station that is uncluttered to guarantee that you will have a clean focus screen. Take hold of the tweezers and gently pick up the new focusing screens. If you want to perform the step manually, meaning to say with your bare hands, make sure that it is free from any particles so as not to stick on the focus screens. Once again, only hold the corners of the focusing screen because it will never be likely for fingerprints to stick on the glass. When you are comfortable employing the item, put back the focus screen inside the package then seal.

At this juncture, you are now ready to remove the old focusing screens. Be extra cautious in this step because you need to open the camera where you can already view what is inside. The focus screens should be partially removed so you can clearly see how the rest of the parts work together. Find the frame latch and gently pull it going to your direction with the employment of tweezers. Once it is loose, you can completely release the focusing screen for replacement purposes. Remember that the mirror of the camera is located below the frame so be wary in taking out the focus screen.

When you purchase a new one, settle for the trusted manufacturers such as Canon focus screen and Kodak focus screen, among others.