Focus Modes

Quick tips for Beginners.

Modern DSLR cameras have several automatic focus modes for shooting different types of subject. Below we list the the modes that nearly all digital cameras have and when to use them. How these modes are selected will depend on your particular camera. Check your camera's manual to see how to switch between them.

Continuous or Servo Mode (AI or AF)

When you half press the shutter button your camera will focus on your subject. As your subject moves the camera will continue to adjust the focus on your subject until you fully press the shutter button. There is one caveat to this mode, it uses more battery power so can reduce overall shooting time. Use it when your subject is moving in any direction be it fast or slow. 

One shot or Single mode (AF or AF-S)

When you half press the shutter button your camera will focus on your subject only once. That said, you can release the shutter button and half press it again to refocus. This mode is best used for portraits or for stationary subjects. 

Auto Mode

Some digital camera's have a third Auto mode that tries to determine if your subject is moving or not and switches between the two modes above. This mode if available can give mixed results and I tend to not recommend using it.

Post by Mark