Focusing Screens

[DonSchap]

One of the unique qualities of the Full Frame body (α850/α900) is the interchangeable focus screens. The standard screen, that comes in the body, is the “G”.

There are two others, the “M” for manual focusing assistance and the “L” for a grid layout, which helps in lining up subjects, architecture and, yeah, horizons.

Since I have a swipe (5) of manual focus lenses, I decided to change to the “M” screen and have noticed that it does improve the focusing acuity of the viewfinder. Is it worth the $50 (part and shipping)? Hard to say … I guess it depends on how often you are forced to make a manual focus. I know I enjoy the use of the Katz-Eye Focus Assistant in the α700 (which you can no longer get, I’m afraid) and it just makes sense to have both cameras capable of the same type of shot, with any of my lenses.

Anyway, the part number ...

for the MANUAL FOCUS SCREEN is: FDA-FM1AM

for the GRID SCREEN is: FDA-FL1AM

The kits come with a removal tool, which is basically a flat blade for releasing the screen holder attached to the end of a plastic tweezer-tool for non-finger removal of the screen. The screen and tool come together in a small plastic, durable container, for safe storage.



Also, there is a menu selection called "Focusing Screen" that must be done to modify the cameras metering system for each particular screen ("G","M", or "L") that is in use. Only one type can be used at a time.

[Rooz]

i thought all cameras had a grid overlay option. obviously not.

[SONYNUT]

You need good lighting to use it though...ih ave tried several times but always end up taking it back out

[DonSchap]

After using the Katz-Eye, in the A700, which has split focus ... I am conditioned to it.

[SONYNUT]

I grew up with it in all my srt 700 ect...hated it most of the time..spent most of your time looking for a pole..lol

[SONYNUT]

I may just have to buy another a900...one with one without..lol

[Honest Gaza]

i thought all cameras had a grid overlay option. obviously not.

No Rooz...that is one feature that caught me by surprise with my Canon 400D and then the same with the 50D

[dr4gon]

No Rooz...that is one feature that caught me by surprise with my Canon 400D and then the same with the 50D

Really? The 50D doesn't have an option for a grid? I find that hard to believe. It has one of those LCDs overlayed on the VF. They could project anything they wanted.

[SONYNUT]

OK I WAS THINKING THE M TYPE WAS THE SPLIT PRISM...

FDA-FM1AM IS A super-spherical accu matte
AND REGULAR /FACTORY IS A
spherical accu matte

SO HOW MUCH DO YOU GAIN WITH THE WORD...SUPER???

[Honest Gaza]

Really? The 50D doesn't have an option for a grid? I find that hard to believe. It has one of those LCDs overlayed on the VF. They could project anything they wanted.

You can replace Focusing Screen (as per Don's thread topic)...but otherwise, the only overlay grid is if you are using the Live View Mode (ie LCD Screen).