55-200mm lens is slow to move

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DKMPhoto

Senior Member
I have a 55-200 portrait lens that at times seems to be very slow in movement while focusing. It doesn't seem to be all the time, but has progressively gotten slower. The lens isn't making any weird noises (it's not a new lens, it's about 4 years old.) I'm wondering if the lens just needs to be cleaned or if it's a sign of a bigger problem to come. Thanks!
 
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rocketman122

Senior Member
DKMPhoto said:
I have a 55-200 portrait lens that at times seems to be very slow in movement while focusing. It doesn't seem to be all the time, but has progressively gotten slower. The lens isn't making any weird noises (it's not a new lens, it's about 4 years old.) I'm wondering if the lens just needs to be cleaned or if it's a sign of a bigger problem to come. Thanks!
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youre a pro? 55-200? unless youre using it for a travel lens, it is no pro lens. maybe youre getting better so the lens seems faster:)

just a tip between pro to pro. the pic on facebook of the girl in green has no detail in her face. the glamour glow/blur is too intense. kids dont need their faces blurred. not to offend, but the picture is just too heavily processed to enjoy the nice composition.
 
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DKMPhoto

Senior Member
rocketman122 said:
youre a pro? 55-200? unless youre using it for a travel lens, it is no pro lens. maybe youre getting better so the lens seems faster:)

just a tip between pro to pro. the pic on facebook of the girl in green has no detail in her face. the glamour glow/blur is too intense. kids dont need their faces blurred. not to offend, but the picture is just too heavily processed to enjoy the nice composition.
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I had no idea that the type of lens I owned was a deciding factor on whether or not I'd be considered a pro or not. I like my 55-200mm, didn't say it was all I used, but I do enjoy it. I also have a variety of 35mm lens too that I use. lol

The lens isn't fast, which is my problem - it's about 4 years old and for some reason is moving slower than usual.

I appreciate the feedback on my Facebook page and will check into that, I have several pictures of people in green.
 
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SteveH

Senior Member
Hi Diana,
I don't have the 55-200, but I do have the 55-300... How does the lens feel in manual focus mode? Is it "sticky" or difficult? The focus ring should turn with no resistance at all.
 
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DKMPhoto

Senior Member
SteveH0773 said:
Hi Diana,
I don't have the 55-200, but I do have the 55-300... How does the lens feel in manual focus mode? Is it "sticky" or difficult? The focus ring should turn with no resistance at all.
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In manual it feels great, no problems at all, but for some reason when it goes into auto focus, as it turns to focus it seems sluggish.. as if there's some resistance..
 
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SteveH

Senior Member
I wonder if the motor in the lens is getting worn? I don't know how they work... Does anyone know, if you have an AFS lens on a motorised body(D7000 and up), which motor does the focusing - Is it the body or the lens?

Can you try your lens on another body, and another zoom lens on your body? Maybe try a different battery too?
 
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DKMPhoto

Senior Member
It does it even on a D90. I also tested several other lens on the body of the D40X and they all work with no problem. It's definitely the lens.

Could a shop fix it for less than replacement? I learned off of this lens, it helped get me to where I am now. lol "old faithful" you know.
 
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Pretzel

Senior Member
DKMPhoto said:
It does it even on a D90. I also tested several other lens on the body of the D40X and they all work with no problem. It's definitely the lens.

Could a shop fix it for less than replacement? I learned off of this lens, it helped get me to where I am now. lol "old faithful" you know.
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I'd say let a knowledgeable shop take a look. I'd almost bet that it's gumming up a bit from the dust introduced through the changes in focal length, or "eye blow" as some call it. Maybe it just needs a good cleaning and some lubrication. If it feels free with manual focus, I'd even go as far to say that it's probably just the internal focus motor.

As far as it being more expensive than replacement, perhaps get a quote before authorizing repair? I know you can get a factory refurbished from Cameta for around... $130 or so if I remember right. Not too bad, and you can place the actual "learner" in a place of honor for the fond memories. :)
 
Horoscope Fish

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
DKMPhoto said:
Could a shop fix it for less than replacement?
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You *might* be able to save a few bucks having it repaired if it just winds up needing a cleaning but considering the time and trouble connected with travel, or shipping, or both to get that done weighed against the fact a new lens is warranted and sells for $250 new and refurbs for a lot less; your best bet would be replacement in my opinion.

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