PCIN.net Update

I am a control freak. When I shoot, I like to have as much control over my photo as possible. I use primarily aperture priority mode to control my depth of field though will switch over to shutter speed priority when I am shooting an image where I need to stop action or where there may be movement in the frame that I do not want to capture. I also often use full manual mode which allows me to control both aspects of my exposure independently of each other. I shoot RAW to ensure I have complete control over how the image is processed. For my macro photography, I manually focus to ensure that my focus is always exactly where I want it. For much of my other photography though I use auto focus, but I still control that aspect of my photo.

The default mode for cameras that offer selective focus points is usually either the center focus point or all focus points. The problem with using the center focus point is that is not conducive to good composition. Sure you can focus on your subject using the center focus point then recompose your image, and if that is the only option you have, it works, but I think that people in general will not do this on a regular basis. Using all of the focus points your camera offers can cause problems for you as well. While you know what part of the subject you want to be in sharp focus, the camera does not and so may focus on a different part of the your scene than you would.

By turning off both of these options and selecting one single focus point, I can be sure that where I put my focus point in my photo will be sharp. My camera offers 5 focus points across the middle of my frame and one centered above and below the middle. I generally the focus point second from the right though of course, it is really determined by my image. For portraits where I want the eyes sharp, that will be the focus point used most often as I tend to shoot most of my portraits vertical and that particular focus point lines up almost right in line with where I want the eyes to be place in my image.

Camera manufacturers all have different methods of selecting focus points. To find yours, refer to your manual.

Until next time, happy shooting.

Most digital cameras with advanced manual override controls often have multiple focus modes, most often single focus or continuous focus. Today I will explain the difference between both and situations when you may want to use them.

Single focus mode will lock focus on your subject and hold that focus point for as long as you hold the shutter button down even if your subject moves from the focus point. This mode also allows you to focus and recompose your photo for better composition. To do this, focus on your subject, and while holding your your shutter button down half way, recompose your image. This focus mode is best for static subjects and subjects you want to place off center. This is the mode I use most often.

Continuous focus mode should be used while photographing moving subjects. This mode continually refocus on your subject (once you obtain focus lock) as it moves closer to or further from you. Great for sports, photos of children playing or anything that may be moving. You cannot use the mode for recomposing your images though because once you obtain focus lock and try to recompose, the camera will automatically refocus on whatever is in the focus point for the camera.

Knowing how to take advantage to all of your camera’s features gives you the information you need to create better photographs. Knowing when to use single focus mode or continuous focus mode is just one of the many features you may not be taking advantage of with your camera.

Until next time, happy shooting.