Setting your camera’s autofocus mode correctly for the specific task at hand can make all the difference between a failed, blurry shot and a sharp attention-grabbing image. If you’re usure which AF mode to when, the follow beginners guide will get you up to speed in a hurry.

Instructor Benjamin Jaworskyj is an accomplished German adventure photographer who travels the globe and returns home with beautiful images and revealing how-to videos of his exploits. Today’s comprehensive explainer is the latest installment of the free Beginners Course that’s archived on his popular YouTube channel.

In this behind-the-scenes video Ben breaks down the different autofocus modes (AF-S, AF-C, AF-A) and demonstrates why and how to use each one in various situations “to get sharp results every time, whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or fast-moving subjects.” Then he suggests a few ways to practice these techniques before heading out for a serious shoot.

There’s also a helpful discussion about another key consideration; namely, how to choose the most appropriate focus point(s) within the frame. He begins with a simple experiment that involves setting up a shot with important elements in the foreground, midground and background.

For multi-layered scenes like this Ben recommends setting your lens to the widest aperture possible that results in a properly balanced exposure. He then turns his attention to the Automatic Autofocus mode (AF-A) and explains how this typical default setting works and when it’s the best option.

As the lesson proceeds you’ll learn about the relative merits of the AF-S (autofocus single) and AF-C (autofocus continuous) settings that are available in just about all digital cameras. By the time the video concludes, all your autofocus guesswork will be a thing of the past.

There are many more straightforward lessons on Ben’s popular YouTube channel, so be sure to pay a visit and explore what’s available.

We also recommend watching the tutorial we featured recently with a notable British pro who poses four thought-provoking questions that he says every photographer should ask themselves now.

We are thrilled to unveil the talented photographers of the GuruShot’s photo challenge, Inspiring Architecture. With creativity and vision, they have captured the essence of architecture in all its grandeur and beauty, and showcased breathtaking structures from around the world that truly inspire awe and admiration. 

Don’t miss the full slideshow gallery at the end of this article, featuring more exceptional entries.

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The marine iguanas of the Galápagos are truly remarkable creatures. Until my recent visit to the islands, I was convinced they inhabited only two worlds – the land, where they bask in the sun, and the ocean, where they dive for food. But earlier this week, I witnessed something that completely changed my perspective: iguanas can fly! Well, at least with a little help from a Great Egret. I’m just not sure if this particular individual will manage to pass its newfound aviation skills down to future generations. Time will tell. For now, though, let’s look back at what the past week brought to the world of photography.

For wildlife photographers looking to capture small or elusive animals in their natural habitat, a supertelephoto lens with a focal length of 600mm is an excellent tool. Currently, Nikon has two 600mm primes in their Z Series lineup: the Nikon Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S and the Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S.