How to Know Which Focus Mode to Use for Photography
The more knowledge you have about the settings on your camera, the more influential the device can be in capturing immaculate images. When it comes to your camera’s focus modes, do you know how to decide which one to use for your type of photography? Learn about each mode below so that you can boost your photography skills.
The Two Main Focus Modes
When you’re filming for videography or capturing images for photography, there are two different focus modes you can choose to use: autofocus or manual focus. Both mean precisely what they are. Autofocus automatically tracks your subject, and manual focus allows you the freedom to do it yourself. However, there can be different sub-modes that fall under the autofocus category.
Take a look at each category below to decide which focus mode to use for your type of photography.
Manual Focus (MF)
As we just stated, manual focus is when you physically choose where in your shot to focus your camera. However, due to technological advancements, this mode is not as common or popular as autofocus. Typically, you would use this mode to focus on subjects in low-light settings or to use a rack focus during cinematography.
Single-Shot Autofocus (AF-S)
The starting point for focus modes is the single-shot autofocus. This approach showcases how an autofocus lens works by taking a single subject in your frame and solely focusing on that. It’s important to note that if you lock in on your subject and they move about the frame, you’ll need to refocus the camera on them again. Due to this, you should use AF-S for static photography, such as portraits, architecture, and macro shoots.
Continuous Autofocus (AF-C or AI Servo)
When you need to track your subject throughout the frame while remaining in focus, AF-C or AI Servo continuous autofocus mode is the one to select. You could skip the AF-S mode altogether and choose AF-C, but the continuous focus will not be as efficient in static photography and can drain your camera battery more. So you should use an AF-C mode when photographing wildlife, action shots, or sports activities.
Automatic Autofocus (AF-A) and Digital Manual Focus (DMF)
Automatic autofocus or AF-A combines single shot and continuous modes that use innovative technology to decide which autofocus mode to use depending on where your subject is in the frame and whether they’re moving. Digital manual focus zeros in on a subject and lets you manually adjust the focus from there.
AF-A is best for difficult subjects to work with, such as children, because they cannot sit still. DMF is great for capturing images after dusk or during the blue hour when the camera does a decent job focusing on your subject but gives you more control by refining the focus.
When deciding what mode to use for yourself, consider what kind of subject you’re photographing and whether you want more control and freedom over the focus. You can always adjust the focus after you begin a session by changing your camera settings or the lens.