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How to Test the sharpness of a lens

Nikon lens focus mode switch with options for manual and auto focus.

The resolution, or sharpness, of a lens is vital to creating and reproducing quality photographs. Watch as this video breaks down how to diagnose the sharpness of your SLR lenses.

Lens sharpness is a simple, but necessary, tool for producing great images. Lens sharpnes issues are more often than not user errors. Fortunately, this tutorial demonstrates the best ways to check for lens sharpness on your SLR lenses.

This tutorial shows you how to properly check your lenses to make sure you have a good or bad copy by making sure it focuses properly without any back-focusing or front-focusing. Some of the settings as shown in the video could guarantee you sharp results. Below are the direct links to download the Lens Sharpness Chart in PDF (Portable Document Format) and DOC (Microsoft Word Document). We created this chart after testing every Nikkor and Zeiss lenses (consumer grade and commercial grade) available today for the maximum sharpness performance at different focal lengths and apertures (tested on FX and DX digital SLR's and film SLR's). You can keep a copy for yourself and it is printable. Enjoy!

Download the Lens Sharpness Chart in PDF at this link: files.me.com/j.n.spina/t5ip3j

Download the Lens Sharpness Chart in DOC at this link: files.me.com/j.n.spina/gfdxlo

Apple's iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates are packed with new features, and you can try them before almost everyone else. First, check Gadget Hacks' list of supported iPhone and iPad models, then follow the step-by-step guide to install the iOS/iPadOS 26 beta — no paid developer account required.