New lens image quality question

[Linda1]

Ok, I've been playing around with the new lens and I'm not sure I'm happy with it. I have yet to get one picture where everything is in focus. It is probably operator error, but I want to make sure before my time frame to return it runs out. Any suggestions on settings etc. to test this lens? Sure wish I knew someone in the area that could take it and give a test run.

[imported_Jimbo]

What settings are you using? Also, do you have AF and IS on?

[Linda1]

I have it on auto focus and I was using the IS. I also used the tripod. Our weather is dark and rainy, so I haven't been able to get outside. I was using the manual setting and trying it at different apertures. I even tried the auto mode. I'll post a link to a few full size pictures. I found this focus test chart, and tried it. I guess it looks ok?



This full size picture information: f/4, 1/60, iso 400, 55 mm
http://www.pbase.com/linda2/image/87897562

[imported_Jimbo]

It took me a while to get used to the lens especially when I was shooting at f2.8. Because of the narrow DOF, I use the center AF point and spot meter especially for portraits. For group shots, I use f/8 and multi. AF points.

[Buddysmom]

Linda, I think the problem with this shot is the shallow DOF/f/4.0 aperture. Try the same shot with around an f/8 aperture. If you have to, raise the ISO to 800 to keep the SS around the same thing. This should get more of the arrangement in focus.