Eyepiece cap

[Alex]

When using a tripod, do I need to use the DK-5 eye cap to block stray light entering viewfinder once I press the exposure button and the self-timer is activated? If I half-press the shutter and self-timer starts isn't the exposure setting already fixed regardless of the light entering the viewfinder? (I have half way exposure button press - locked exposure setting activated).

Thanks for any suggestions.

Alex

[Onyx]

I thought the viewfinder cap was to block stray light from interferring with the camera's metered light readings, so you'd set everything up and put the eye cap on before triggering the remote shutter release.

Someone help out us n00bs and tell us definitively what that DK-5 is meant to be used for!

[MCWB]

Alex: even though the exposure settings are fixed, if stray light comes in and hits the sensor it will throw your exposure out. I'd imagine if you shone a torch into the viewfinder for example your image might come out a tad overexposed.

[joolz]

I've had incidences where stray light coming from the viewfinder caused flare like artifacts on my image when I triggered remote. I've since learnt to use the cap when I can. I guess it is particularly prone if there is strong ambient or direct light coming from behind the camera.

Joolz

[gstark]

Alex: even though the exposure settings are fixed, if stray light comes in and hits the sensor it will throw your exposure out. I'd imagine if you shone a torch into the viewfinder for example your image might come out a tad overexposed.

Actually, that would cause underexposure.

Onyx, Alex, yes, you should use it, placing it on the viewfinder prior to releasing the shutter.

[MCWB]

Actually, that would cause underexposure.

Maybe I wasn't clear, I wasn't talking about shining the torch in during the exposure, such that more light than intended hit the sensor. You're right though, doing it whilst metering but not exposing would cause underexposure.

[Alex]

Thanks for clarifying it, everybody. Still if I did the reading while looking through the viewfinder then locked the exposure settings with AE-L button and then pressued the exposure button would using the cap be benefitial? Just seems a pain to take the rubber eye piece on and off everytime when using tripod like a bit of a pain.

Alex

[digitor]

Taking the rubber surround off is a pain - a piece of black tape is easier to use! Doesn't need to be stuck too hard - just sitting there, and it doesn't really matter if you lose it.

Cheers

[nito]

Taking the rubber surround off is a pain - a piece of black tape is easier to use! Doesn't need to be stuck too hard - just sitting there, and it doesn't really matter if you lose it.

Cheers

Ahhhh so thats how you fit it on! After all this time, I thought it was a useless piece of plastic which adds 30c to the purchase price of my D70.

[Andyt]

I second Digitor's "taped" view finder, I use the same method, much easier and quicker......... besides with the light being stronger and brighter here in WA its a must

Andyt

[sirhc55]

I just drape a very light glasses cleaning clothe over the viewfinder - stops sticky rubber

[shockadelica-]

i cup my hand and place it over the viewfinder
but theres a smarter idea!! the cleaning cloth

or if the cleaning cloth is too thin a small square of black demin would be great
i might do that if i remember next time im near a spotlight store

[gstark]

Whatever method you choose, be aware that you should be clear of the camera - not actually touching it - during or just prior to the moment(s) of exposure, in case you induce movement or vibration.

That is what's known as not a good idea.