The MFO-3 is the latest version of mid-range focus optimizers, first shown at the 2024 DEMA show. Designed to fix flaws in a variety of native lenses and enhance overall performance when shooting in mid ranges. A completely new concept.
The MFO-3 further builds on this innovative concept by offering several advantages and additional features that enhance its predecessor’s capabilities but in different ways.
Real world test:
I had my first opportunity to use the MFO-3 during a recent trip to South Australia. I took possession of it in Hong Kong while en route to SA, where we briefly discussed the new lens engineering and what to expect when using it. The lens slid easily into an already tight camera bag, and I continued my journey with this conceptually new and secret device.
Leafy Seadragon- Tumby Bay, SA. Nikon Z8, f-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/14 @ 1/200 Improving focus in low light conditions, with excellent contrast and ease of use. This was the first image I shot with the new MFO-3.
Winter conditions dominated in SA, bringing waves, wind, rain, and sediment into the water. I had planned to use my 8-15mm lens and CFWA techniques to photograph the Leafy Seadragons, but then realized that, given the current conditions, that was impossible. Changing my strategy, I swapped lenses and ports, grabbed the MFO-3, and went into the water.
It took us two bone-chilling dives to locate our target, but soon after we entered the water on the second dive, we hit pay dirt.
Leafy seadragons are mesmerizing to watch as they float and drift with the surge, moving up and down with each passing wave while rocking back and forth in a dipping motion. Their bodies are tall, their snouts are elongated, and they maneuver with transparent dorsal and pectoral fins. Their intricate design mimics the algae or seagrass where they live, and their coloration provides perfect camouflage. Leafy seadragons are arguably the most whimsical creatures on our planet, so it's essential to make every shot count.
I approached the solitary Leafy as I usually would, using my 105, but when I looked through the viewfinder, I immediately noticed that I had more frame space than expected. I quickly glanced over my camera, thinking the subject was too far away from me, but surprisingly, I found it was looking directly into my lens, only 15cm away. Surprised, I motioned for my model to come over and easily worked her into the frame.
As explained, the MFO-3 is designed to reduce working distance while expanding the field of view, and I immediately noticed these two features when I looked through my viewfinder. The length of the lens also aids in holding the camera steady while shooting. This was especially useful for handheld video, particularly for blackwater macro footage.
Later, we explored a field of razor clams under a different jetty, where we found a clingfish with eggs, nestled deep within the recesses of a clam.
I tried shooting it with a straight 105 but couldn’t get close enough to light it properly. I backed off, attached the MFO-3, held my snoot by hand, and tried again. This new approach let me get as close as I needed while still being able to light it the way I wanted. Stabilized with fin tips on the sand and shooting straight down. I had pushed my patience close to the limit when the fish finally moved into position. My lens quickly focused, and I was able to capture this special moment.
Clingfish on eggs - Edithburgh, SA, Nikon Z8, f-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/16 @ 1/160 Allowing me to shoot well within the inner working distance of my Native 105mm and providing superb depth of field. Fast focus in low light and lightweight underwater.
Back on my home turf in Anilao, I was able to further test the MFO-3 by photographing some of the local subjects. Testing for sharpness, clarity, depth of field, bokeh, focus, and anything else I could think of.
After some searching, we found the perfect setup— a family of hyperactive anemonefish aerating their eggs. We were just beneath the boat in 5 meters of water, with beautiful ambient light filtering down. I engaged 3D tracking, reduced my working distance, and focused on shooting. I used both fast and slow shutter speeds, and watched as the aggressive anemonefish tended to their ready-to-hatch eggs. My focus pipper would grab the eye of the fish and track it through the frame with ease, in, out, side to side; it made no difference, even with the intense ambient light and lack of contrast, my autofocus had no issues.
Anemone Fish with Eggs: Nikon Z8, Z-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/9 @ 1/10 Utilizing the 3D focus tracking, the fast-moving Anemone fish presented a new challenge that the MFO-3 tackled with ease.
Before proceeding, my guide pointed out a nearby Flamboyant cuttlefish. These incredible hunters camouflage themselves as they glide across the substrate, pulsating colors and mesmerizing their prey. Suddenly, its tentacle stretched out as it struck. Later, I realized I had captured the moment of the Flamboyant feeding on a small lizardfish. When photographing behavior, quality is paramount, and after seeing this shot, I was convinced that the MFO-3 significantly improved my focus and overall image quality.
Feeding Flamboyant Cuttlefish: Nikon Z8, Z-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/18 @ 1/200 Timing and reliability are everything. A photographer relies on their gear, regardless of the circumstances. If it’s cumbersome or awkward, agility is compromised.
Shooting blackwater video with a macro lens is challenging, especially when using autofocus, because the lens tends to gain and lose focus easily as the subject moves through the water, often spinning or spiraling. I usually rely on manual focus, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well the AF managed with the MFO-3. My 105mm gained and maintained focus easily with laterally moving subjects and tracked above its native capabilities when subjects moved toward or away from the lens. My blackwater tests have shown that anyone using the Sony 90mm or Canon 100mm lenses now has a solution to the absence of 60mm lenses for blackwater diving—a real breakthrough for anyone facing this challenge.
Frogfish and ambient light: Nikon Z8, Z-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/13 @ 1/40 Closeness to my lens and a slow shutter speed helped capture the exquisite details of a lovely painted frogfish while keeping the ambient light in the background.
Seahorse silhouette, Anilao, Ph. Nikon Z8, Z-105 + MFO-3, ƒ/25 @ 1/200
In summary,
The most accurate test of all was that the MFO-3 enabled me to capture images that I wouldn't have been able to without it!
Highlights beyond the specs: ƒ-105 and Z105 lenses
- “To the glass” working distance
- Wider angle of view—similar to 50mm or 60mm.
- Enhanced depth of field
- Smooth bokeh
- Fast focus in low light
- Flip adapter or Bayonet mount
- Easy to travel with
- Adds an optional angle when shooting with longer lenses
- Macro video
- Excellent supplemental lens for Sony and Canon users