What's the difference between zoom through and non-zoom through wide angle adapters?

A "zoom through" wide angle adapter is what's technically known as an "Afocal" attachment. "Afocal" means that there is no focal point produced by the adapter, but rather a resizing of the image. Afocal adapters work both ways, as a wide angle adapter or as an image magnifier. Believe it or not, the original afocal optical device was created by Galileo known as a Galilean telescope. Typically, a zoom through adapter uses two to three lenses in its design.

The Red Eye wide angle adapter works differently in that it does have a focal point, BUT it exists in front of the lens (virtual image), not behind the lens (real image) as is the case with a magnifying lens. Since the image exists in front of the Red Eye, the only means of seeing it with a television camera is to use a macro adjustment to focus on the point where the image is found.

Focus tends to "pump" between in focus and somewhat out of focus when using automatic focus on the camera.

The focus sensor is picking up something on the camera like a wind sock on the mic and giving false directions to the lens.

Will it work with my DV camera?

Some but not all DV cameras can focus in at very close range giving them macro focus ability. To make these cameras work with the Red Eye, the operator may need to use the auto focus feature if there is difficulty focusing using the focus ring. In short, if your DV camera is equipped with a macro feature, then the Red Eye may work with your DV camera.

Can I zoom with the Red Eye?

If a Red Eye is used on a broadcast television camera lens, the answer is no. The Red Eye was designed as a non-zoom through wide angle adapter. Set the zoom lens to its widest focal length, adjust focus ring to infinity and focus using the macro adjustment.

But... DV cameras are the exception.

In most cases, when the camera is in auto focus mode the cameraman will actually be able to zoom with the Red Eye. This is a function of the camera more than the Red Eye. None the less, you will be able to cover roughly ? the zoom range using the DV cameraÕs auto focus feature.

Can I use the Red Eye with a film camera?

The Red Eye can be used on wide angle 16 mm or 35 mm film lenses. The short focal length of these lenses allows the operator to focus on the virtual image created by the Red Eye. We would suggest you test the Red Eye with your film lens.

Can I use the Red Eye with my digital photography camera?

Yes, as long as the digital photography camera is equipped with a macro feature.

Is this type of adapter new?

There's nothing new in the physics, just the technology. This type of adapter has been around for a long time. Many manufacturers produce a similar type of adapter as the Red Eye. But none as practical and none designed by a professional cameraman. WeÕve taken into consideration the needs of cameramen, size, weight, features and cost. The Red Eye offers technological innovation .

Red Eye™ Lens Adaptor Tips

• Focus ring on your camera should be set to infinity.
• Focusing is done by adjusting the macro-focus or back focus adjustment on the camera lens.
• Be aware of your depth of field. At f16, everything is in focus, including any dust on the lens! Use the N.D. filters.
• If you use a MATTE BOX with FILTERS and BELLOWS, you can use the Red Eye wide angle adapter with it.
• You can use your existing lens hood. With the lens hood already attached to your lens, simply screw the Red Eye adapter on your lens.
• Be aware that adding the Red Eye on top of other screw on filters increases the possibility of vignetting.
• The adapter works well in shots where a dramatic angle is needed to increase perspective or to accentuate the effects of fast motion, or on shots that float through a room on a steadicam, to smooth out movement.