AF/MF scenarios

Like Exposure, Focus that is relevant, is what we aim for. Also importantly, the camera-lens system has to achieve the right focus within the split second that we need.

Options for Street Shooting

Street shooting methods and results vary considerably.

Assuming that the subjects are moving faster than you + your camera+lens system can focus

Let us assume your choice of subject is around 6 ft / 2 metres, "normal" width of view and you need snap quick response.

I would choose Preset Focus -

• Either Manual Focus at 6 ft

• or

• AEL/AFL Button activating S-AF aimed at anything you guestimate at 6 ft / 2 metres.

• set the Shutter Release Button to avoid triggering autofocus as it triggers the shutter

• set the focal length of the zoom to between 17mm to 25mm (depending on how far you want to stand away and what size you want your human figures to appear in the image

• set f/5.6 or f/8

Short list of settings to check for panning of fast motion subjects

• 1. CAF

  2. Cluster of 9 focus points aimed at the skater

  3. High speed burst

  4. Fast AF lens

  5. IS to not stabilise horizontal shake

  6. Pan your body and camera, at half press

  7. Review Time to zero or no Review

  8. Shutter release button to CAF on half press - Custom Menu A > AEL/AFL > CAF > Mode 2 - half press causes AF

  9. Shutter speed 1/30 or 1/60

  10. Audible AF confirm on

  11. No Art Filters

  12. If not using JPEG, then Picture Profile on Vivid

  13. Custom Menu C > Rls Priority C > Off'

  14. Custom Menu C > Release Lag Time > Short (not saved in Myset)

  15. Custom Menu J Built in EVF > SOVF