Has anyone created a custom lens profile, or preset, that automatically adjusts settings based on photo metadata, specifically focal length of a zoom lens?
I understand how to manually adjust for uniform pincushion and other lens corrections, and how to set that correction as preset(s), but at “fixed” values. So, wondering if it’s possible to use “tunable” parameters in the preset or .dop file based on the focal length, and possibly f-stop, metadata.
Has anyone done this that is willing to share techniques?
In my search I see that Adobe has a free downloadable program to create a custom profile that provides some ideas. Adobe Lens Profile Creator.
I ask because I am interested in buying a Sony EF 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II lens for it’s “zoomable” macro functions. But this lens is not currently supported by DxO.
I understand this lens has significant pincushion distortion and may not be “perfect” lens. I am only recently getting back to photographing flowers and insects, so don’t know what macro focal length best suits my needs. This post is not a lens review request, however if there are better alternatives in a “zoomable” macro I’m open.
Lens sharpness, distortion and CA depend also on focusing distance. This is why it’s wise to read some lens “scientific” reviews with a grain of salt, as they typically use test charts at a fixed distance.
Measured data in DxO modules is probably parametrized by focal length (for zooms), aperture, and focusing distance. There is even FocusingDistance column in the Metadata table of DPL photos database. This data can then be interpolated for a given photo.
As an example, SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN lens has zero distortion for shooting distance 30cm and -2.8% at infinity. This data was provided by Sigma, see Notice to the users of SIGMA 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary - SIGMA Press Center for more details. To add to complexity, some lenses have mustache distortion, like barrel in the centre and pincushion at the edges (Nikon AFS DX 18-200 is one of the examples).
As of now, there is no way to create a module other than to add a request HERE.
For existing modules, Image metadata is used to adjust corrections according to how the lens’ focal length and focusing distance were set. Sometimes, this info is unclear or unavailable, then the FL and FD tools’ sliders are unhidden or activated (on Mac).
Example with active sliders due to metadata not being decisive.
I usually set distance first and then use the focal length slider to straighten straight lines.
Note that any combination can occur, e.g. FL being clear (slider greyed out) and distance being unclear (slider with blue track)
I failed to scroll down enough in DxO’s lens database to find that the lens I am considering. So apparently a module is available, and my distortion modeling is not necessary. My mistake.
I understand the issues with non-uniform distortion and the impact of FL, FD, and FS. The reviews suggest the distortion was reasonably uniform, such that the single pincushioning tuning parameter would be adequate if based on these 3 lens factors. Anticipated building that calculation into a module or .dop file, as needed.
