Quote Originally Posted by Shebang
Roger, Frog & Loupey and all:
All I really know for sure is I'm not getting the tack-sharp focus that I see on a regular basis on this forum. I don't care how I get it -- I'm lazy. Easy would be good. Though I've improved, somehow, I'm still missing the focus "boat." I am going to experiment more with the LCD ideas suggested -- and that A-DEP thing, Loupey. I did read that that was worthless, but maybe the writer doesn't really know.
Shebang,

Why don't you post an example or two with EXIF data so we can assess what your doing wrong. That will give you more help than the theoetical stuff that's been discussed.

Some things I have learnt from experience

Sharpness can be a lens problem, my 24-70L recently had a problem and I found out that the screws on the baseplate of the lens needed a bit of tightening.

The diopter is not adjusted correctly on the viewfinder

Speed - needing a tripod

Tripod - not sturdy enough for the weight of camera and lens

DOF not high enough to capture what you want

Not using the timer to take the photo and stand away from the tripod to minimise shake

Traffic or wind rocking the tripod on long exposures, I have used this to create an effect that some people liked, and hang my rucksack underneath to add weight at times to stop the rocking.

Lack of experience of when the light just won't let you take the photo you want with pin sharpness with the available kit.

and the list goes on - I am still learning.

Roger R.