Travel Resources for Adventurers
Teleconverter Compatibility: Extending Your Reach
Written by Antonio Cala.
Teleconverters are lens accessories that can increase the focal length of your lens, allowing you to get closer to your subject without physically moving closer. They are a cost-effective way to extend your reach without having to purchase a new super-telephoto lens. However, teleconverters can also reduce the amount of light entering your camera, which can affect the autofocus and image quality. Therefore, it is important to choose the right teleconverter for your camera and lens.
Understanding teleconverters is essential to determine whether they are compatible with your camera and lens. Teleconverters come in different magnifications, such as 1.4x, 1.7x, and 2x, and they can be used with both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. However, not all cameras are compatible with teleconverters, and some lenses may not work well with certain teleconverters. It is important to check the compatibility of your camera and lens with the teleconverter you are considering before making a purchase.
Key Takeaways
- Teleconverters can extend your reach without having to purchase a new super-telephoto lens, but it is important to choose the right teleconverter for your camera and lens.
- Understanding teleconverters is essential to determine whether they are compatible with your camera and lens.
- Camera compatibility is an important factor to consider when using teleconverters.
Looking for the Perfect Camera for Wildlife Photography?
Check out our master guide
and find the best model for you.
Table of Contents
Understanding Teleconverters
Basics of Teleconverter Functionality
A teleconverter is a camera accessory that is placed between the camera body and the lens to increase the focal length and magnification of the lens. It works by magnifying the center of the image produced by the lens, allowing the image to appear closer and larger. Teleconverters are available in different magnifications, typically 1.4x, 1.7x, and 2x.
Teleconverters are designed to work with specific lenses and camera bodies. Compatibility is an important factor to consider when using a teleconverter. Using a teleconverter that is not compatible with the lens or camera body can result in reduced image quality, autofocus issues, and other problems.
Advantages of Using Teleconverters
Using teleconverters is an affordable way to extend the reach of a lens without having to purchase a new, expensive lens. Teleconverters are also lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry around when traveling or shooting in the field.
Teleconverters are particularly useful for wildlife and sports photography, where the ability to get close to the subject is limited. They are also useful for macro photography, where the additional magnification can help capture fine details and textures.
It is important to note that using a teleconverter can reduce the maximum aperture of the lens, making it less effective in low light conditions. Additionally, the increased magnification can also make camera shake more noticeable, so it is important to use a tripod or other stabilizing equipment when using a teleconverter.
Camera Compatibility
When it comes to teleconverter compatibility, it is important to consider the camera you are using. Some cameras may not support the use of teleconverters or may have limited compatibility with certain models.
DSLR Camera Support
Most DSLR cameras support the use of teleconverters, but it is important to check the camera’s specifications to ensure compatibility. Generally, DSLR cameras are compatible with teleconverters that use the same mount as the camera’s lens. For example, a Nikon DSLR camera will be compatible with teleconverters that use the Nikon F-mount.
It is also important to note that using a teleconverter with a DSLR camera may result in a loss of autofocus speed and accuracy. This is because the teleconverter reduces the amount of light that reaches the camera’s autofocus sensor, making it more difficult for the camera to focus accurately.
Mirrorless Camera Considerations
Mirrorless cameras are becoming increasingly popular, but not all models are compatible with teleconverters. Mirrorless cameras with a shorter flange distance, such as those with a Micro Four Thirds mount, may have limited compatibility with teleconverters due to the shorter distance between the lens mount and the camera’s sensor.
However, many mirrorless cameras, such as those with a Sony E-mount or a Nikon Z-mount, are designed to be compatible with teleconverters. It is important to check the camera’s specifications to ensure compatibility before purchasing a teleconverter.
Lens Compatibility with Teleconverters
When it comes to using teleconverters, compatibility is crucial. Not all lenses work with all teleconverters, and some combinations may result in reduced image quality or even damage to the equipment. Here are some things to keep in mind when matching teleconverters to lenses.
Matching Teleconverters to Lenses
Nikon offers teleconverters in 1.4x, 1.7x, and 2x magnifications, which utilize the Nikon f/mount and are compatible with all Nikon film-based SLRs and DSLRs (FX and DX format). However, not all lenses can be used with teleconverters. Nikon provides a list of lenses that are compatible with their AF-S teleconverters, along with any noted functional limitations. It’s important to note that the rear elements of Nikkor lenses not listed can contact and damage the teleconverter element and must not be attached.
Canon also offers teleconverters that are compatible with their EF and EF-S lenses. The Canon Extender EF 1.4x III and Canon Extender EF 2x III are designed to work with L-series telephoto lenses and select mid-range telephoto lenses. The Canon Extender EF 1.4x II and Canon Extender EF 2x II are compatible with a wider range of lenses, but may result in reduced autofocus performance and image quality.
Sony offers teleconverters that are compatible with their G Master and G lenses. The Sony 1.4x Teleconverter and Sony 2x Teleconverter are designed to maintain full AF and AE functionality with compatible lenses, and can be used with select Sony E-mount lenses via an optional mount adapter.
Impact on Lens Performance
Using a teleconverter can impact lens performance in several ways. First, it reduces the amount of light that reaches the camera sensor, resulting in a slower maximum aperture and potentially slower autofocus performance. Second, it increases the effective focal length of the lens, which can be beneficial for wildlife and sports photography, but may result in reduced image quality and increased chromatic aberration. Finally, it can introduce additional optical elements into the lens system, which may result in increased distortion, vignetting, and other optical aberrations.
Choosing the Right Teleconverter
When it comes to choosing the right teleconverter, there are a few things to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Magnification Factors
Teleconverters come in different magnification factors, such as 1.4x, 1.7x, and 2x. The magnification factor determines how much the teleconverter will extend the reach of your lens. For example, a 1.4x teleconverter will increase the focal length of a 100mm lens to 140mm, while a 2x teleconverter will double the focal length to 200mm.
It’s important to note that while a teleconverter can increase the reach of your lens, it also reduces the maximum aperture and image quality. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right magnification factor based on your shooting needs and the capabilities of your camera and lens.
Image Quality and Light Loss
The image quality and amount of light loss are the two main factors to consider when using a teleconverter. As mentioned earlier, a teleconverter reduces the maximum aperture of the lens, which means less light reaches the camera sensor. This can result in slower shutter speeds, which can lead to blurry images if the camera is not stabilized.
Additionally, a teleconverter can also reduce the image quality, especially when using a lower quality lens. So, it’s important to use a high-quality lens with a teleconverter to maintain the best possible image quality.
Practical Tips for Teleconverter Use
When using teleconverters, there are a few practical tips that can help you maximize their potential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Focusing Techniques
When using teleconverters, it’s important to use the right focusing technique. One technique is to use manual focus, which allows you to fine-tune your focus and get sharper images. Another technique is to use autofocus, which can be faster and more convenient, but may not always be as accurate as manual focus.
It’s also important to keep in mind that using a teleconverter can reduce the amount of light that reaches your camera’s sensor, which can make it more difficult to focus. To compensate for this, you may need to use a wider aperture or increase your ISO.
Stabilization and Support
Using a teleconverter can also make your images more susceptible to camera shake, which can result in blurry images. To minimize camera shake, it’s important to use stabilization and support.
One way to stabilize your camera is to use a tripod or monopod. This can help keep your camera steady and reduce camera shake. Another way to stabilize your camera is to use image stabilization, which is built into some lenses and cameras. This can help compensate for camera shake and produce sharper images.
It’s also important to keep in mind that using a teleconverter can make your lens heavier, which can make it more difficult to handhold. To support your lens, you may need to use a lens collar or a hand strap. This can help distribute the weight of your lens and make it easier to hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Nikon lenses are compatible with a 2x teleconverter?
Not all Nikon lenses are compatible with a 2x teleconverter. However, most of the professional grade lenses are compatible with a 2x teleconverter. Some popular lenses that are compatible with a 2x teleconverter include the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8, Nikon 300mm f/4, and Nikon 400mm f/2.8.
How do I choose the best teleconverter for my Nikon camera?
When choosing a teleconverter for your Nikon camera, it’s important to consider the lens you’ll be using it with. Make sure that the teleconverter is compatible with your lens and camera body. Also, consider the magnification factor of the teleconverter. A 1.4x teleconverter will give you a little extra reach, while a 2x teleconverter will double your focal length. Keep in mind that using a teleconverter will also affect the maximum aperture of your lens.
Where can I find a compatibility chart for Nikon teleconverters?
Nikon provides a compatibility chart for their teleconverters on their website. You can also find compatibility information in the user manual for your camera and lens.
Can you use a teleconverter with a Canon camera?
No, Nikon teleconverters are not compatible with Canon cameras. Canon has their own line of teleconverters that are designed to work with Canon lenses.
Are there any drawbacks to using a teleconverter on my lens?
Using a teleconverter will reduce the amount of light that reaches your camera’s sensor, which can make it more difficult to focus in low light situations. Additionally, using a teleconverter can reduce the sharpness and contrast of your images. However, these drawbacks can be minimized by using a high-quality teleconverter and lens combination.
Will a teleconverter fit my Nikon 70-300mm VR lens?
Yes, the Nikon 70-300mm VR lens is compatible with teleconverters. However, it’s important to note that using a teleconverter will affect the maximum aperture of the lens. With a 1.4x teleconverter, the maximum aperture will be reduced by one stop, and with a 2x teleconverter, the maximum aperture will be reduced by two stops.
About the Author
Born and raised in Southern Spain, Antonio quit his job in 2013 to travel the world full-time with his wife Amanda for 10 years straight.
They visited 150+ countries, cycled 25,000km + from California to Patagonia, sailed over 10,000NM around the Caribbean & Sea of Cortez, rode their motorbikes 30,000 kms+ across West Africa (Spain to South Africa) and visited Antarctica, among many other adventure expeditions.
Today Antonio runs Adventure Fix with Amanda, where they share their knowledge about the places they’ve visited and the ones still remaining on their list.
Antonio Cala
Co-Founder of Adventure Fix