Beginner Tips for Using Autofocus

Most people think that using autofocus is really simple. The truth is, for beginning photographers, it can be a challenge to get a handle on. These tips can help new photographers grasp the use of autofocus, for sharp photos.

5 Beginner Tips for More Autofocus Success

When you’re just starting out, it can sometimes be frustrating trying to get sharp photos. The camera’s autofocus often seems like it has a mind of its own. Here are five quick tips that can help you get the autofocus under control. 1. What is your subject doing? If your subject is sitting still and not moving, be it a person, a still life, or a landscape, you’ll want to choose One-Shot autofocus (AF-S for single on Nikon). One shot AF allows the camera to focus, and then as long as the button is depressed, focus will stay locked. This is useful if you want to focus and recompose your shot, especially if an autofocus point doesn’t cover the area you want to be in sharp focus (see #2 below). If your subject is moving, such as a child at play, an animal, or a car, change the autofocus mode to AI Servo AF, or Continuous AF (AF-C, depending on the brand of camera you have). This means the camera will continue to focus on the subject even as it moves toward or away from you. Read the entire article 5 Beginner Tips for More Autofocus Success on Digital Photography School.