Range finder accuracy

[sqjaw]

How does one know that the range finder on his came is working correctly
I am not a math wiz nor am I any other type of whiz , Just a simple person
who likes to know every thing is working as it should be so if foto is off its him not the camera equipment, Thanks folks

 

[ferider]

You can do a couple of tests:

1.) see if the RF aligns at the infinity focus setting of the lens, using a star or the moon or so.
2.) see if the lens focus marking at closer focus (1-3m) match the RF and a measurement tape
3.) finally, if you want to be thorough, test photos both at infinity and close focus.

Roland.

 

[Finder]

Is there anything to suggest it is not accurate?

 

[payasam]

Roland has told you how to check the R/F, with tests on film being definitive. Finder's question is pertinent: there's not much sense in agonising over nothing.

 

[sqjaw]

Well its like this I had some fotos come out where the foreground was out of focus and the background was sharp ? and that small hole for the rangefinder does not help nor the does the fact that those diopters thing ama jig move very easy : Lauren

 

[ItsReallyDarren]

What kind of camera are you using?

A yard stick is a quick way to check close focus. Measure the back of the camera (if you want to be more accurate the back of the film plane). Then measure from that distance 3ft or 3.5ft, whichever your lens will focus to. Stand a pencil or something similar at the end of your measured distance and look through your camera. The viewfinder should show the pencil in focus.

An easy way to check infinity was best described by Roland, focus on the moon or stars.