Are you struggling with the focus accuracy of your DSLR? Restore your image quality with a focus correction service.
As any photographer will know, the sharpness of your focus has a huge impact on your final shot, especially apparent on high-resolution sensors. DSLR auto-focus sensors are separate from the imaging CMOS sensor so there can be a variation between the distance from lens to AF sensor vs lens to CMOS. This variation can cause the AF to lock on even if the image recorded is slightly soft.
Our focus adjustment service matches bodies to lenses for optimal focus performance using FoCal software and the AF fine-tune options built into your camera.
“FoCal” is an abbreviation of “Focus Calibration,” and it is a software for tuning the lenses to the camera; i.e., the software measures the focus performance of a camera and lens system and automatically adjusts it to one another. We use it to adjust tiny differences caused by wear-and-tear, temperature, or slight imperfections in your equipment. The process is simple and will only adjust these small differences without going through a deeper assessment.
FoCal also offers a range of other features and tests, including autofocus consistency and accuracy, aperture sharpness, distortion, and advanced testing for expert users.
FoCal adjustment service is commonly confused with Focus Calibration due to its abbreviation name. The difference between FoCal adjustment and Focus Calibration is that the FOCUS CALIBRATION requires a deep assessment of the body and lens, where we check body dimension, condition of the mirror box for dust, frame count, sensor, impact damage, focus unit, diaphragm, and if the image stabilizer is functioning. The FOCUS CALIBRATION is done within the repair service. Calibration tells the camera that for a specific lens the focus should be pushed back or forwards a little to compensate for this inaccuracy. Canon calls this setting AF micro adjustment while Nikon calls it AF fine-tuned. We test each of the lenses you supply with each of your camera bodies at every focus adjustment position to identify the best focus position for each camera and lens combination.
If any of the items are found to be not functioning correctly or out of standard, then we do not start the calibration. Rather, we will estimate the new faults found and only after repairing it, we will do the focus calibration.
For a FoCal adjustment service, please complete our online Repair Form and send your equipment along with it.
Please note that we may change your camera settings whilst we perform FoCal adjustment, calibration or sensor cleans. Please read our T&Cs for further info. Before and after tests may not show dramatic improvements in focus performance when shooting wide open as many lenses are softer at their widest apertures.
Difference between FoCal and Focus Calibration
| FoCal | Focus CALIBRATION | |
| Test each lens and adjust AF fine-tuning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adjust tiny differences caused by wear-and-tear, or slight imperfections in your equipment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Check and adjust autofocus consistency, accuracy, aperture sharpness and distortion | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mirror box area checked | ✓ | |
| Sensor cleaned | ✓ | ✓ |
| Clean front and end element for the lens | ✓ | ✓ |
| Upgrade firmware | ✓ | ✓ |
| Focus unit checked | ✓ | ✓ |
| Check lenses and cameras for any faults | ✓ | |
| Body dimension checked | ✓ | |
| Frame counted | ✓ | |
| Impact damaged checked | ✓ | |
| Diaphragm checked | ✓ | |
| Image stabilizer functioning | ✓ |
Some signs that your camera may need focus adjustment include consistently blurry or out-of-focus images, especially when using the autofocus feature. If you find that the focus seems inconsistent or that images are consistently front or back-focused, it may be worth considering focus adjustment.
While some cameras offer built-in autofocus micro-adjustment features that allow users to perform basic focus adjustment themselves, it is generally recommended to have it done by a professional service or authorised camera technician. They have the necessary tools and expertise to accurately adjust the focus system.
It is generally not necessary to adjust the focus of your camera frequently unless you notice consistent focus issues. However, lens changes, accidental impacts, or firmware updates can sometimes affect autofocus performance, so it’s a good idea to have your camera adjusted after any significant changes or events.
The time taken for focus adjustment can vary depending on the complexity of the camera and the specific issues that need to be addressed. It can range from a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the situation.
FoCal can generally be performed on most DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) cameras with interchangeable lenses. Mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses may also support focus adjustment, but it is advisable to consult the camera’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for specific guidance.
Once your camera’s focus has been professionally adjusted, it should remain accurate and stable unless there are significant changes to the camera or lens. However, it is always a good idea to periodically check the focus performance and seek professional adjustment if you notice any persistent issues.
In most cases, focus adjustment performed by a professional service center or authorised technician will not void your camera warranty. However, it is advisable to check your camera’s warranty terms and conditions or consult with the manufacturer to ensure that the adjustment does not impact your warranty coverage.