How To Read MTF Charts for Beginners

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A huge percentage of the questions I get are in regards to lens sharpness and how to properly define such. MTF charts are the industry standard of measurement for lens sharpness, but these graphs are often confused.

If you and I were to sit down and have a conversation about MTF charts and how to read them, this is what I would tell you. I hope this is clear enough that it makes sense enough that you would be able to explain it to someone else!

Enjoy!

[PPISAFETY]

Michael, this was really helpful. I've been taking pictures for 50 years now and never knew how to read an MTF chart. Most of the explanations I've read have just made my eyes glaze over. Thanks!

[AKRON-Productions]

I have never heard about MTF charts, but you explained it really well!

[swsuwave]

Mike - I always thought it was MODULATION transfer function - not modular. I used to work in a camera facility (on the electrical & microwave side) - the "LENS GURU" wouldn't stop talking about the MTF for a given lens. "modulation" has a different meaning to microwave engineers than optical engineers. Your video is still great - I just wish more manufacturers would publish their MTF charts online, especially for some older glass. I've really enjoyed your videos! Keep up the good work!

[dimitristsagdis]

Thank you very very much, really helpful. Probably the best explanation of MTF charts I've seen so far.

[chriswong]

Absolutely a clear, concise and informative video! Thank you so much!

[amjadhashim]

Thanks. An excellent down to Earth explanation and with caveats on why there will be variations from different manufacturers and even between same models of the same lens. Well done.

[johnpopoolapade]

Enjoying your lessons. MTF is Modulation Transfer Function, no Modular Transfer Function

[MMaven]

LOL there is always that one guy out there who always gives me a thumbs down as soon as I post. :)

[thilinaalagiyawanna]

Thank you very much, very well explained.

[seanmangan]

Thanks! I didn't know how the hell to read these until this video. Thank you for this valuable information.

[davebutton]

Really useful and easy to follow - thank you!

[bddt]

6:03 The explanation of contrast and resolution are totally misconception. Read the subscription, The red lines (Solid and dash) are S10 and M10 (NOT contrast), the blue lines are S30 and M30 (NOT resolution). Some of the MTF charts go further, can have S50/M50, and S70/M70 etc. You can also put in S40/M40 if you want to.

[agstechnicalsupport]

Mike, thank you for the brief and clear summary on how to read MTF charts

[kenmcdougall]

Very useful to have a clear explanation and finally I understand this, thank you

[billmerritt]

This helps a lot. You explained it very well and I appreciate your explanation. Well done and thank you.

[tw]

Another great video in your series... your teaching style (and how you break things down) is so perfect for subjects like this.

I am still not sure exactly how I would use these charts in real world decision making about lenses- there are so many other ways to collect information and reviews about overall lens usefulness - but I did always kind of hate that there were charts out there that I knew little about reading and had always just ignored. You definitely solved that!

Still, focus speed and accuracy and build quality (weather) are probably going to always rule for me over the minor variances shown in these charts when it comes to actually picking a lens for capturing fleeting moments.

[NavigatEric]

Well presented. I was really sure those vertical and horizontal window blinds in the background were going to become part of a demonstration. Guess not.

[tamito]

The best explaination i have ever seen

[GavinSteiner]

Fantastic video. You communicate your subject matter really well. Thank you

[benhowley]

Very clear explanation. But what is the practical utility of keeping MTF charts in mind if you can’t compare them between different lens companies. I understand you could compare lens from that same manufacturer but is that it?