FAQs about the PinPoint
FAQs about Lens Guards
FAQs about the Lens Cradle
FAQs about DeluxGear Neo Camera Straps
What are the best situations in which to use the PinPoint?
The PinPoint takes the guess work out of focusing in low light, both indoors and outdoors, including:
o In poorly lit rooms or large enclosed areas
o When your subject is in shaded areas
o At dawn, early evening, or dusk
o In overcast weather conditions
The PinPoint also permits you to get a focus lock:
o Even in a pitch black room or in the darkness of night
o With monochromatic or solid color surfaces as the subject
o Through water or glass, and other translucent surfaces.
You may also use the PinPoint to track or shoot “from the hip” – no need to use the viewfinder – for photographing people and animals, with both telephoto and prime lenses.
What is the range of the PinPoint?
For Assisting with Focus: The PinPoint helps you focus in low light situations from 0.75 to 40 meters (2.5 to 130 feet). The actual range you experience depends on the focal range of the lens. Lenses less than 400 mm may have an adjustable focal range up to 20 meters, and the PinPoint will therefore help you acquire focus only up to that point, to the limit of the lens’ adjustable focal range.
For Tracking: The PinPoint light is visible in low light, such as that in a lit parking lot, over 210 meters (700 feet). That’s double the length of a football field. It can be seen even further in darkness.
What are the preferred camera and lens settings/modes when using the PinPoint?
Your lens: Set it to AF. Take off “all focus lock”. We recommend using the center focus point, but you can set the PinPoint to utilize any of the viewfinder focus points. For shots in very low light, you can use full auto setting with all focus dots enabled.
Your camera: Use manual settings. The best modes to use are M, TV, Sports, and AV.
Where do I mount the PinPoint?
The PinPoint mounts on the camera body, on the battery pack, or on the lens tripod collar. On the lens tripod collar, it may be rotated 90 degrees for easier handling and to keep the PinPoint out of your way, as well as provide an extra lens grip.
The PinPoint keeps moving from left to right when I push the power button, making it difficult to get the green dot in the center. What should I do?
Try these steps:
1) Be sure the PinPoint screw is tightened fully. If it is not snug, tighten it. If that does not secure it, check to be sure you are using a short enough screw.
2) Make sure the Horizontal Guide Plate is pushed flush against a straight line on the back or front of the camera body, battery pack, or lens tripod collar.
3) Be sure the Horizontal Guide Plate is properly seated between the guide rails on top of the PinPoint.
What if I don’t see the projected light or my PinPoint won’t illuminate?
1) Be sure that your finger or other obstacle is not blocking the light beam.
2) The PinPoint is designed to work in low light. It may simply be too bright outdoors.
3) If that is not the case, the battery may be low. Replace it, if necessary.
Can I use rechargeable batteries in the PinPoint?
Yes!
Is the PinPoint hardwired or interactive with the camera or lens?
No! The PinPoint is manually controlled by the PinPoint’s activator button. This keeps the PinPoint universal. Plus, the operator retains full control. The auto focus components that are built into your camera and lens quickly acquire the luminous green dot providing an instant focus lock.
What benefits do I get from using the PinPoint with the DeluxGear Lens Cradle?
The PinPoint and Lens Cradle are designed to fit together. Use the Lens Cradle to support your camera and PinPoint horizontally, allowing you to photograph without raising the viewfinder to your face.
What benefits do I get from using the PinPoint with the DeluxGear Cradle Mount?
In bipod mode, the Cradle Mount will protect your PinPoint and camera by supporting your gear, keeping it off surfaces that might contaminate or damage it. The Cradle Mount prevents your lens from resting on its filter ring or hood, and protects the front element of your lens.
Does one Lens Guard fit all lenses?
No. We currently offer seven sizes, to fit lenses and hoods from 2 7/16 inches (6 cm) in diameter all the way to 8 1/8 inches (20.5 cm). Simply select the size of Lens Guard you need through our “Which Lens Guards fit my lens?” compatibility chart. Be sure to select the proper size based on whether you want to use the Lens Guard on your lens, or over your hood. You can also get a Lens Guard for the rear of the lens. They can be different sizes.
If a Lens Guard is not listed for your lens, check our measurement instructions to determine the size you need.
What if my Lens Guard doesn’t fit my lens?
Simply return it with a measurement of the front or rear diameter of the lens you have. We will promptly send you a replacement of the correct size.
How do I clean my Lens Guard?
We suggest using a household glass cleaner for the outer shell and blowing any dust or debris from the inner cavity with a can of compressed air. If the Lens Guard does get wet, or is submersed or saturated in water, remove it from your lens and let it air dry. Do not put the Lens Guard in the washing machine, dryer or dishwasher. This will destroy the Lens Guard and void any warrenty.
Where do I attach the tether?
You have multiple options. They include 1) around the base of the lens, 2) around one of the camera straps or 3) to the tripod collar, if your lens is equipped with one. Just be sure that, however you attach it, the tether does not interfere with the functions of the lens and camera when the Lens Guard is not mounted to the lens.
Do I have to attach the tether?
No. However, the tether keeps the Lens Guard securely attached to help ensure it is not misplaced or forgotten. When properly attached, you won’t even know it’s there.
What are the tabs on the sides of the XL, 2XL, Jumbo and GIant Lens Guards?
These are loops for the straps (tethers) that come with these Lens Guards. Thread each strap through these loops. You can then attach them to loops on the sides of your lens with the snap hook, to help keep the Lens Guard on your camera.
Can I leave my cap or filter on when using the Lens Guard?
Yes. The lens cap or filter will not interfere with the function of the Lens Guard. Occasionally a lens cap will come off in the end of the Lens Guard. That is a sign the Lens Guard is doing its job, and that the lens has been bumped or jarred to dislodge the cap. A lens cap may also come loose if it uses side releases and has a loose or worn fit.
Will the Lens Guard fit over my lens hood?
Yes. You have two options:
1. Over the end of my hood when it is in use. Many people like to keep their sunshade or hood on their lens at all times. We recommend you only use the Lens Guard on the hood when the hood is 1 3/4” (4.4 cm) or less in length. If it is, follow these steps.
For hoods longer than 1 3/4” (4.4 cm), you will only want to use the Lens Guard or Lens Bumper on the hood when it is inverted. When a longer hood like this is in use, the Lens Bumper over the lens is your best solution.
2. Over the hood when it is inverted and stored. To determine what size Lens Guard or Lens Bumper you need when the hood is inverted and stored, follow the steps on this page.
The hood will protect the lens from dings and scratches from minor impacts. But, with any significant force, the lens suffers from the impact and the hood will pop off. In that case, you may have both a broken hood and a lens that is scratched or dinged, or that even needs repair.
The Lens Guard is designed to protect your lens from impact, scratches, moisture, dust and grit. Simply put, the Lens Guard is designed to protect your lens, the hood is not. In many cases, you can get extra protection of both the hood and the lens if you use a Lens Guard or Lens Bumper.
Will the Lens guard damage the coating on my lens?
No. The Lens Guard has a cupped end to provide an air buffer upon impact. The design of most lenses will prevent the element from making contact with the interior of the Lens Guard. Even if it does, the neoprene is coated with a soft jersey spandex cloth that is non-abrasive.
Will the Lens Guard keep dust and mold out of my lens?
The Lens Guard will act as a major deterrent to dust and mold depending on the construction of the lens. Push-pull and outer focus lenses will inherently suck in dust and moisture if not properly maintained. Where this entry of dust and moisture may occur on these types of lenses is typically not covered by the Lens Guard and, therefore, not protected.
How is the Lens Guard better than my lens cap?
The Lens Guard is a padded, reinforced cup or bumper that encompasses the front or rear of the lens. It has an air buffer design that guards against blunt impact and abrasive contact. By contrast, a lens cover is a simple plastic disk that offers no blunt force, impact protection, or outer barrel protection. Also, a lens cover generally does not have a tether, so it is easily misplaced.
Will the Lens Guard protect my lens if it is submersed in water?
No. However, as long as the front or rear barrel section, elements, filter ring and the mount and contacts are not submerged beyond the edge of the Lens Guard, they will be protected. The Lens Guard is designed to protect against mist, dust, scrapes, scratches, blunt force, and impact.
Is there a difference between a front Lens Guard and a rear Lens Guard?
Not in the Lens Guard itself. But, the size Lens Guard required to fit the front may differ from the size to fit the rear on many lenses. However, most smaller lenses will use the same Lens Guard for both the front and rear.
When I order a Lens Guard, does it include both front and rear Lens Guards?
No.
If you have not found the answer to your question in this FAQ please contact DeluxGear Customer Support.
About the Lens Cradle
Will the Lens Cradle fit my lens?
The Lens Cradle is designed with a quad rail mounting platform on both the top and bottom that will fit any lens with a tripod collar.
Does my lens have to have a tripod ring?
Yes, the lens must have a tripod collar to attach the Lens Cradle to the lens.
Will the Lens Cradle damage the tripod collar or mounting foot of my lens?
No. The Lens Cradle comes with a neoprene pad placed on the mounting surface to protect the tripod collar mounting surface.
Will the Lens Cradle work with an aftermarket or generic tripod collar?
Yes.
Does a tripod collar come with my order?
No.
Will the Lens Cradle get in the way of using my lens?
No. The Lens Cradle has a variety of mounting positions to accommodate different lengths and widths of lenses.
Will the strap rub the sides of my lens during use?
No. The Lens Cradle outer strap slots are 5.75 inches (10.5 cm) apart, giving ample space to the sides of the lens.
How much weight will the Lens Cradle support?
The Lens Cradle has been tested and shown to support over 175 lbs.
What is the Lens Cradle made of?
60% Polycarbonate, 40% autograde ABS
Does the Lens Cradle come in any other colors?
No, not at this time.
Is the Lens Cradle interchangeable between brands and sizes of lenses?
Yes. The Lens Cradle uses a Patented quad rail design with three mounting holes, that allow it to accommodate any width or length of tripod collar mount.
Will the Lens Cradle work with a tripod or monopod?
Yes. The tripod or monopod must use a quick release plate. Three mounting bolts of different lengths are supplied with the Lens Cradle for this purpose.
What are the three holes for in the center of the Lens Cradle?
These are a selection of mounting holes to adjust balance and comfort on various sizes of lenses.
Why are there two sets of rails on the top and bottom of the Lens Cradle?
The patented quad rail design not only accommodates all tripod mounting rings but also prevents twisting and turning of the lens once it is mounted.
Which mounting bolts should I use?
The black rosette thumbscrew is used to mount the Lens Cradle directly to the tripod ring foot. The longer silver bolt is supplied for hex head and thicker quick release plates. The shorter silver bolt is supplied for rectangle and thinner quick release plates.
What is the black rubber O-ring for?
This prevents the thumbscrew/bolt from vibrating loose during operation.
I see four slots on the Lens Cradle, which ones do I use?
The inner slots are only used for those who prefer to always transport their camera and lens in a vertical position. The outer mounting slots are the most commonly used.
About DeluxGear Camera Straps
What is the difference between a two point Neo Camera Strap, and four point Neo Duet Camera Strap? Which camera strap should I purchase?
The Neo Duet Camera Strap is expressly designed for use with the Lens Cradle. It features a four point connection, 2 lower straps should be connected to the camera body and 2 strap extensions with the 3/8 inch buckles should be connected to the lens Cradle. This gives the greatest amount of support, balance and control of the camera and lens. The Neo Camera Strap is a minimalist approach. It is longer than average and provides a 2 point connection to the Lens Cradle or to the camera body. Which strap you should purchase depends on how much support you want. The Neo Duet Strap provides the best support. The Neo strap is a more traditional type strap and may require a hand to steady the lens.
Can I use my own strap with the Lens Cradle?
Yes, as long as it is long enough to accommodate the Lens Cradle.
How much weight will the camera strap support?
It has been tested to support in excess of 75 lbs.
What is the boomerang section of the camera strap?
That is the neoprene center section of the strap that goes around the neck or over the shoulder of the user.
What is neoprene?
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber often used in wetsuits, mousepads and many other products where elasticity and shock absorbing properties are required.
Which lower section of the Neo Duet Camera Strap should I connect to the Lens Cradle?
The straps that are longest and have the small side release buckles go to the Lens Cradle.
What is the best way to adjust the straps after mounting the Lens Cradle and straps to my camera and lens?
Place the camera and lens on a flat surface. Raise the boomerang section over the camera and lens. Adjust the Lens Cradle straps to equal lengths and then adjust the camera body straps to equal lengths. Do this until you can raise the camera by the boomerang strap and maintain a balanced horizontal position.
Can I purchase additional strap extensions?
Yes. You can find additional strap ends, or “extensions”, on the DeluxGear Order page, where we have a full listing of DeluxGear products.
How do I clean and care for my neoprene camera strap?
Hand wash in cold water, mild detergent, drip dry. We do not recommend tightly folding or creasing the neoprene section.
If you have not found the answer to your question in this FAQ please contact DeluxGear Customer Support.