Focusing the Lumix G1 with Leica M lenses

[awilder]

As it is impossible for me to get my hands on a G1 where I live, I have a question about focusing with adapted Leica-M lenses for those that already own the camera. Is their any kind of focusing aid or MF assist when looking through the EVF to make certain focus is spot on? I realize this function exists on their Micro 4/3 dedicated lenses but what about for adapted SLR or Leica M lenses, especially slow wide angles? Sorry if this question has been posted before.

 

[kbg32]

When focussing in manual, the middle of the screen becomes enlarged, making manual focussing easier.

 

[JoeV]

You have three ways to check focus on the G1. 1) You can use the rear LCD screen. It's lower resolution than the EVF, but you can often tell, especially with wide apertures. 2) You can use the EVF without the magnified "zoom" mode. For my eyes, I can usually manually focus these older lenses just by using the EVF, where the in-focus parts of the image tend to snap in focus. 3) For very critical focus, you can activate the zoom mode. You press the left, then center, buttons of the 4-way controller. Once the zoom mode is activated, the 4-way controller buttons will move the zoom window around the full image area, should you choose to do so. A half-press of the shutter button clears the zoom mode.

I also find that for quick, street or documentary style images when using manual lenses, simply using the DOF and focus distance scales on the lens itself will get you in the ballpark, especially with smaller apertures.

~Joe

 

[awilder]

Joe, just to make certain, do these comments about magnified focusing aides apply to adapted MF lenses like Leica M or 35mm SLR lenses?

 

[Warren T.]

The focusing aid also works with adapted lenses. I used it to aid in focusing my Nikkor 500mm f8 Reflex lens with my G1.

--Warren

Image: "Backyard Cat", Lumix DMC-G1, Nikkor 500mm f8 Reflex, on monopod:

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

Yes, they do. You don't get a focus confirm beep or light, though.