Focusing screens for Canon EOS

Reader A.D. wrote to ask which focusing screens are best for manual focus lenses such as the Zeiss ZF line (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). There are quite a few available for the Canon pro-level cameras but I use the Canon Super Precision Matte Ec-S (about $37.95), which does make precision focus easier to achieve as claimed. The Ec-S was introduced for the 1D Mark II series, but it works just fine with the 1D Mark III and the 1DM3’s custom function IV-11 supports it as a choice.

Canon Ec-S

For all-around use (autofocus) on the Canon EOS 1D Mark III and other models, I prefer the Ec-D grid screen. It’s a shame one can’t have the Super Precision Matte with a grid, but alas it’s one or the other.

Canon Ec-D

Be sure to set the appropriate custom function for the screen in use! On the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, this is set in custom function IV-11. Failure to do so can lead to metering errors.