MSM Easy Focus filter - Star Focus - ideal for star photography

Star Focus filter for astrophotography

Visit Star Focus filter is an accessory designed for cameras in order to obtain a better extremely precise focus on stars. In astrophotography, achieving reliable focus in the dark is often one of the most delicate steps. Thanks to its integrated Bahtinov mask, The Star Focus Filter provides a clear view of the optimum focus point.

Important information: only the complete version with all adapters is available. It comes with an 82 mm filter and all the adapter rings listed below.

Compatibility with zoom lenses

The Star Focus filter is perfectly compatible with zoom lenses. The longer the focal length, the better the focusing performance. It also works very well with wide-angle lenses.

Video demonstrations are usually carried out indoors with a red LED (test example: Canon 600D with Canon EF-S 18-135 mm f/3.5-5.6 lens at 18 mm).

How to choose the right adapter?

Simply select the ring corresponding to the thread diameter of your lens. The main filter is in 82 mm, The supplied adapters enable it to be used with most common photo lenses.

How to use the Star Focus filter

Method 1 - Live View focusing

1. Attach the Star Focus filter to your camera.
2. Activate the Live View, set ISO to maximum (ISO 1600 or higher) and exposure time to 10 seconds or more.
3. Adjust the framing so that the bright star or light source is perfectly centered. We recommend choosing a star of magnitude 1.
4. Zoom in on the image and turn the focus ring until you see three fine diffraction lines.
5. Adjust the focus until the three lines converge into a single point: the focus is now optimal.

Method 2 - By test photos

This method is useful if no bright stars are visible or if the lens aperture is too small.

1. Attach the Star Focus filter to the camera.
2. Set focus to approximately infinity.
3. Use a high ISO and a short exposure time (a few seconds), then take a test photo.
4. Analyze the three lines in the image:
   • If the center point is on the left, turn the ring to the right.
   • If it is on the right, turn the ring to the left.
5. Take another test photo and repeat until all three peaks converge perfectly.

Note: the filter can also be held in the hand, allowing occasional use without the need for an adapter.

Directions for use

• Always position the shining star in the center of the frame.
• For wide-angle lenses, set the aperture to its maximum value. maximum value.
• The filter is not wear-resistant: store it in its case after use.
• In the event of dust or traces of oil, use a blower and a neutral cleaning product.
• Do not store in a high-temperature environment.

Recommended apertures according to focal length

Technical specifications

• Main filter diameter : 82 mm
• Adaptor rings included: 49 mm, 52 mm, 55 mm, 58 mm, 62 mm, 67 mm, 72 mm, 77 mm
• Weight : 20 g (without adapter ring)
• Weight with ring : 30,3 g

Content of the available version

Visit only version available is supplied with :

• 1 Star Focus filter 82 mm
• 8 adapter rings: 49 mm, 52 mm, 55 mm, 58 mm, 62 mm, 67 mm, 72 mm, 77 mm

Note: Star Focus filters can be used with other lenses, thanks to the adapter rings supplied.

FAQ

Q1: What focal lengths does this filter work with (14 mm, 20 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm)?
Yes, the filter works perfectly with all these focal lengths, including wide-angle. It performs even better with longer focal lengths and zoom lenses.

Q2: I have a Nikon 24-70 mm lens with an 82 mm thread. Is it compatible?
Yes, the main filter is 82 mm and screws directly onto your lens.

Q3: Is it necessary to remove the filter after focusing?
Yes, the Star Focus filter must be removed before shooting.