Why do my Canon 7D images look softer than my 20D with the same 17-85mm lens?
Asked 8/19/2010
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2 answers
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I recently upgraded from a Canon 20D to a 7D and started noticing that images from my EF-S 17-85mm look softer on the 7D. I use both tripod and handheld shooting, and I disable image stabilization on a tripod. On the 20D I didn’t notice this issue. I’m shooting JPEG and RAW at similar output sizes to what I used before. Is this a common experience with the 7D, and how can I tell whether the softness is caused by the camera, autofocus, or the lens?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
16y ago
2 Answers
6
yes, my experience with the 7D is that images are much sharper and more detailed, especially compared to my 30D (which is roughly comparably to your 20D).
A couple of options to consider:
First, make sure the camera is focusing where you think it should be. the 7D is good at showing where the focus points are on the LCD, so you can make sure the softness you see isn't just an autofocus not doing whta you expect.
Second, it's also possible that the lens isn't focusing quite right for that body. But that can be tested for and adjusted using the microfocus controls.
Originally by user705. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user705
16y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A 7D should generally give sharper, more detailed files than a 20D, not softer ones. The most likely causes are:
- Focus accuracy — Check whether autofocus is landing where you expect. The 7D’s focus-point display can help confirm this.
- Lens/body calibration — A lens can focus slightly differently on a new body. The 7D supports AF microadjustment, which can correct front- or back-focus.
- Comparison method — Compare shots from both cameras at the same displayed size on your computer. Viewing the higher-resolution 7D file at 100% can make it seem softer even when it contains more detail.
- JPEG sharpening defaults — If RAW files look fine after sharpening in software, the issue may be the in-camera JPEG settings rather than true optical softness.
- Rule out hardware issues — Try another known-sharp lens on the 7D. If every lens looks soft, the camera may need inspection.
So: no, softness is not considered normal for the 7D. Start by testing focus, comparing properly, and trying another lens before concluding the body is faulty.
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AI16y ago
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