LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator

  • B&H # LELAP
  • Mfr# LA-LAP

Product Highlights

  • Basic LensAlign System
  • Supports Optional Long Ruler Kit
  • For DSLRs with AF Micro-Adjustment
  • Aids in Focus Adjustment
  • Correct Front/Back Focusing Problems
  • Maximize Sharpness of Camera/Lens
 

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The LensAlign Focus Calibration System (Pro Version) is a unique and accurate way to check the focusing performance of your camera and lens combinations. This system provides you with a reliable and easy way to make sure your expensive photographic equipment performs at optimum level. After all, you want your images spot-on sharp since anyone in the business knows that clients don't like excuses - and when you only get one chance to get that money shot, your gear must be in peak condition.

However, no matter what camera/lens you buy, it's probably been mass produced. Even though manufacturers allow for production tolerances, mistakes happen and it is rare that perfection is achieved. If, by chance, your camera is "off" by a fraction and you couple that with a lens that is also off just "so-much", the combination produces an image that will be soft.

Further complicating the equation is what happens when you take it in for repair and the service center decides to over-compensate for the amount that is "off" and instead of dealing with a lens that used to front focus, you now have a lens that either front focuses more or that now back focuses.

LensAlign is a hardware-based tool that permits you to "pair" a camera/lens combo for maximum sharpness. By measuring whatever deviation this combo produces, correction can be readily achieved using the built-in adjustment for auto focus that many of today's high-end cameras possess.

The system is easy to use. Tripod mount your camera while placing the LensAlign on a table or additional tripod and focus on the center focus spot of the target (adjust position of camera to center the target). When this is achieved, both the imaging plane and target will be parallel. Set the DOF scale, adjust it as per included instructions and make an image (or images) of the setup. Once you capture the image, minor adjustments can be achieved using the focusing micro-adjustment control on your DSLR. It's that easy.

9.5" Long Ruler for measuring DOF (Depth of Field)
Works for manual or auto focus cameras
Laser calibrated system
Can be table-top or tripod mounted (tripod mounting preferred)
Should be used by both photographers and repair centers

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator
 
4.6

(based on 14 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (10)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

86%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Easy to use (9)
  • Lightweight (7)
  • Reliable (7)
  • Durable (6)
  • Consistent output (3)

Cons

  • Pricey / poor value (3)

Best Uses

  • Everyday (4)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Semi-professional (4)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (6)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Good Instrument to have.

[...]I used LensAlign Pro for my three top of the range lens for my D300, 17-55mm f/2.8, 106mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 Nikkor lens. The procedure ...Read complete review

[...]I used LensAlign Pro for my three top of the range lens for my D300, 17-55mm f/2.8, 106mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 Nikkor lens. The procedure download from LensAlign had been very helpful. I spent total of 10 hrs performing two cycles of calibration and checking on these three lens. I used tripods, one each for the Lens ALign and the Camera.The key step is the backsighting from the LensAling to the camera lens to get the two align. This step is easy and enable the alignment to be like 90% complete, what remains is slight movement on the camera targeting to the get the red dot centered.I did two cycles because i want to confirm the reproducibility of this process. I became extremely meticulous the second round, taking recorded shot on every +/- 1 increment and examine them at 100% with photo shop on the PC with good resolution screen. This turned out to be the most critical part in terms of determining whether the lens is front of back focus and which fine tune figure is the right one. Getting a number does not mean it is the right one, it has to be repeatable to be certain, otherwise, u may be using the wrong fine tune number without knowing it. All my lens turn out to be positive except one need a -2 adjustment.I did a number of test shots on any chosen object like wall clock and I cant detected any change in the focus quality if the fine tune is less than +/-3, the reason is that it take an proper instrument like LensAlign to detect the difference. With my background in handling instrument as an engineer, the overall experience is that LensAlign is an innovative optical instrument for the right purpose, diligent procesures and patient is required for dependable result, it is not the problem of LensAlign, it is the challenge for anything that has to do with optical experiment. If anyone have a high end DSLR with fine tune features and using good lenses, LensAlign is a good instrument to have. At least, I know my lenses are good and I can only push myself hard on the photography skills.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

LensAlign Pro Focus

This product works well but considering the price it is rather cheaply constructed and it should have a buble level to help you level it on a tripod. Also it would be nice to have...Read complete review

This product works well but considering the price it is rather cheaply constructed and it should have a buble level to help you level it on a tripod. Also it would be nice to have instructions with the product rather than having to search the internet for them.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 14 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-14

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(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

 
3.0

LensAlign Pro Focus

By Dan

from Ontario, Canada

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

    Cons

    • No buble level
    • Pricy
    • Weak construction

    Best Uses

      Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

      This product works well but considering the price it is rather cheaply constructed and it should have a buble level to help you level it on a tripod. Also it would be nice to have instructions with the product rather than having to search the internet for them.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

       
      3.0

      Would not reccommend for beginner

      By ragphoto

      from usa

      About Me Pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

        Cons

          Best Uses

            Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

            Difficult to use and does not work well with zoom lenses. Unless you are stacked with prime lenses I would not suggest. Even if you are unless you have noticeable focusing problems, I would just send your lens back to the manufacturer...

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

             
            5.0

            The answer to my problems

            By MattyP

            from Perth, AUSTRALIA

            About Me Pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Durable
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

              Best Uses

                Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                After having some serious AF issues with some of my L-series primes, I wanted something easy to use to hopefully solve the issue. I researched online
                The LensAlign Pro was the answer to my prayers, and now my lenses are all nice and sharp thanks to it.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Expensive Lenses not dialed in off shelf

                By mikey

                from Atlanta, GA

                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Accurate
                • Consistent Output
                • Durable
                • Easy to use

                Cons

                • Ruler too short

                Best Uses

                  Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                  Micro adjustment of Canon 7D was a big plus. 75% of my Canon L lenses were seriously focused in front of the AF point, including my 500mm f4.0 and 85mm f1.2. Because the 7D I acquired was able to make micro adjustments to match lenses, I acquired a LensAlign Pro when I ordered the 7D. The same lenses were off in the same direction on the 40D, but of course the 40D does not allow for micro adjustment. The LensAlign Pro was easy to use. I tested lenses on both bodies to be sure before I started making adjustments. It was clear the LensAlign was providing good reliable readings which gave me the confidence to make the necessary adjustments on a new camera body just before traveling out of state for a significant and rare opportunity for a wildlife photo shoot.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                  (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                   
                  5.0

                  Fairly simple to use - great results

                  By JazzPhotog

                  from Seattle, Wa

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Consistent Output
                  • Lightweight

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                      Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                      The LensAlign Pro is built with precision and is easy to use -- provided you watch the videos. I set mine up using two tripods, as recommended.

                      I have a Canon 1D Mark IV, and a Canon 5D Mark II and calibrated the 1D with the following lenses:
                      - 50mm f/1.2L, +3
                      - 24-105mm f/4.0L, +4
                      - 85mm f/1.8, +0
                      - 70-200 f/2.8 ISL, +14
                      - 135mm f/2.0L, +2

                      Makes a big difference. The 1D MKiv seemed to have had more of a problem than the 5D MKii but the variation as shown by the LensAlign means I was less critical of my 5D MKii photos. I will soon be adjusting the lens combinations with that camera body, too.

                      The documentation that came with the product is poor. It shouldn't be necessary to go searching for the videos on how to set up the product. The videos do not mention how to calibrate zoom lenses. Should you use the shortest, longest, or mid focal length? I chose a middle position, and then later checked the accuracy with other lengths. Fortunately, they were the same.

                      I almost marked it down to 4 stars based on the lack of documentation, but it works so well I gave it the 5. The price is justified. I actually tried to create my own setup but could not get reproducible results.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Comment on this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      4.0

                      An eye-opener

                      By DrPete

                      from Laurel, MD

                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Consistent Output

                      Cons

                      • Expensive but unmatched

                      Best Uses

                        Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                        This is a great system, and it allows for fast, precise micro-adjustment of all my lenses. Within 20-30 minutes I had identified and fixed a consistent backfocusing issue with one lens, and front-focusing in another. Does exactly what it says and does it quite well. My only gripe is the price, but despite that it's worth having around. A $99 retail price would make this a 5-star product.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Lens Align Pro

                        By Waro

                        from Sacramento, CA

                        About Me Semi-Professional

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Durable
                        • Easy To Use
                        • Reliable

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Everyday use

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          Works great. Easy set up and use. My 85 f1.8 that I was ready to sell due to softness is now tack sharp after microadjustment using the LensAlign. Anyone with a DSLR with focus adjustment should get one.

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Great product

                          By Shin

                          from Tokyo, Japan

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easy to use
                          • Lightweight
                          • Reliable

                          Cons

                          • Expensive

                          Best Uses

                          • Everyday use

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          This is a great photographic equipment. It's simple and reliable.

                          Comment on this review

                          (4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          4.0

                          Good Instrument to have.

                          By CS Liu

                          from Saratoga, CA

                          About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                          Pros

                          • Durable
                          • Easy To Use
                          • Innovative
                          • Lightweight
                          • Precise and simple

                          Cons

                          • Need Skill Practice

                          Best Uses

                          • When in doubt on lenses

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          [...]I used LensAlign Pro for my three top of the range lens for my D300, 17-55mm f/2.8, 106mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 Nikkor lens. The procedure download from LensAlign had been very helpful. I spent total of 10 hrs performing two cycles of calibration and checking on these three lens. I used tripods, one each for the Lens ALign and the Camera.The key step is the backsighting from the LensAling to the camera lens to get the two align. This step is easy and enable the alignment to be like 90% complete, what remains is slight movement on the camera targeting to the get the red dot centered.I did two cycles because i want to confirm the reproducibility of this process. I became extremely meticulous the second round, taking recorded shot on every +/- 1 increment and examine them at 100% with photo shop on the PC with good resolution screen. This turned out to be the most critical part in terms of determining whether the lens is front of back focus and which fine tune figure is the right one. Getting a number does not mean it is the right one, it has to be repeatable to be certain, otherwise, u may be using the wrong fine tune number without knowing it. All my lens turn out to be positive except one need a -2 adjustment.I did a number of test shots on any chosen object like wall clock and I cant detected any change in the focus quality if the fine tune is less than +/-3, the reason is that it take an proper instrument like LensAlign to detect the difference. With my background in handling instrument as an engineer, the overall experience is that LensAlign is an innovative optical instrument for the right purpose, diligent procesures and patient is required for dependable result, it is not the problem of LensAlign, it is the challenge for anything that has to do with optical experiment. If anyone have a high end DSLR with fine tune features and using good lenses, LensAlign is a good instrument to have. At least, I know my lenses are good and I can only push myself hard on the photography skills.

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Great product for your piece of mind

                          By Hatch

                          from Surprise AZ

                          About Me Professional

                          Verified Reviewer

                          Pros

                          • Easy To Use
                          • Reliable

                          Cons

                          • None

                          Best Uses

                          • Calibrating lenses

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          Well built... easy to use... repeatable process so you know your lenses are hitting the mark. I tried the different charts and paper methods.... but... this product tops them all.

                          All but one of my lenses needed front or back focusing adjustments.

                          Well worth the money spent in my opinion.

                          Comment on this review

                          (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          LENSALIGN PRO

                          By beauport

                          from Washington, DC

                          About Me Semi-Professional

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easy To Use
                          • Lightweight
                          • Reliable

                          Cons

                          • Expensive

                          Best Uses

                          • Everyday use

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          Great tool, works perfectly, repeatable results.

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Excellent alignment device

                          By tv photog

                          from New York, NY

                          About Me Professional

                          Verified Reviewer

                          Pros

                          • Durable
                          • Easy To Use
                          • Lightweight
                          • Reliable

                          Cons

                          • Expensive

                          Best Uses

                          • Everyday use

                          Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                          I had tried various targets for microaligment, without much reproducibility. The Lens Align gives me that, and is very simple to use. You don't even have to view the shots on a computer, just blowing them up on the LED is enough to align a lens. A bit expensive, that's the only con I can see.

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Excellent product

                          By Kerry

                          from Detroit, MI

                          About Me Semi-Professional

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Durable
                          • Easy To Use
                          • Excellent design
                          • Gets the best of lenses
                          • Great value
                          • Lightweight
                          • Reliable

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Fast lenses wide open
                            • Home
                            • Zoom lenses with care

                            Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                            I was quite surprised to see the level of thought and ingenuity that went into the Lens Align Pro. Lots of attention to the details went into this product.

                            Since I got my d300, almost 2 years ago, I've used various test targets and methods of using the lens fine tune adjustment on the camera. I did the same thing all over again when I added a d700 to my kit. I wasn't real happy with the wasted time and efforts that went into fine tuning lenses for 2 bodies. Too much trial and error.

                            Lens Align pro changed all of that. I am in the process of recalibrating both bodies with this device. It's so easy to do and the results are much better than what I got with the other methods. Almost all of my fast lenses, f/2 and f/1.4 have now been more precisely calibrated to each body. I'll soon tackle the zooms, to see if I can eek out a little better performance.

                            It's very gratifying to know that you're getting the best out of your expensive lenses. I'm quite pleased with this product and the results show in my images. This is a must have device for me now. I'll never go back to the old methods of checking a lens for focus issues.

                            Comment on this review

                            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            5.0

                            Great Product

                            By Jim K.

                            from Cincinnati, OH

                            About Me Semi-Professional

                            Pros

                            • Easy To Use
                            • Lightweight
                            • Reliable

                            Cons

                            • Somewhat Pricey

                            Best Uses

                            • Landscape Photography
                            • Macro Photography

                            Comments about LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator:

                            Using Lens Align Pro I was able to quickly and accurately calibrate each of my lenses to my 50D body. The results are repeatable, and very accurate. Yes, there are other (cheaper) ways to do this... but this product does it best. A great idea!

                            Comment on this review

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                            LensAlign LensAlign Pro Focus Calibration System with Enumerator
                            • Retractable Sighting Gate
                            • Front Sighting Plate
                            • Rear Sighting Plate
                            • 9.5" Depth of Field Ruler
                            • Settings Enumerator
                            • Tripod Mount
                            • One-Year Warranty (Parts and Labor)
                             
                             
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