Single-Point AF: How to Use it for Sharp Photos Every Time (VIDEO)
All photographers strive for perfectly sharp photos, and this task can often be difficult depending on the subject at hand and the situation we confronts. Consistently achieving precise focus isn’t about owning a great camera, but rather understanding how autofocus really works and knowing how to use it properly and the best settings to use.
The video below comes to us from the folks at Great Big Photography World, a YouTube channel that caters to shooters of all skill levels by sharing lessons on a wide range of topics from camera basics and composition, to post-processing and more. Our unnamed instructor explains the goal of today’s beginner-friendly episode like this: “I’ll break down everything you need to know about autofocus settings so you can finally capture sharp photos every time.
There’s a specific emphasis on your camera’s Single Point AF mode that our instructor says he personally uses most of the time and recommends to beginners and hobbyists alike. He explains his preference like this: “Unlike multi-point focus where your camera decides where to focus, single-point AF gives you full control over exactly what part of your composition is sharp. And this precision can make or break a photo.”
The video provides a quick walkthrough on when to use single-point AF, configuring the camera appropriately regardless of the brand, and how to practice with both static subjects and those in motion. You’ll also learn how to physically move your focus point within the frame, whether you’re using a rocker switch, control wheel, or a camera’s rear touchscreen LCD.
There are times when multi-point focus may be preferable with certain fast-moving subjects like birds in flight as compared to photographing a person walking past a tree. You’ll also see how to read the small square focus indictors to keep you abreast of what’s going on, “because sometimes you want full control, but other times you just need the camera to help out.”
And that’s why understanding what a camera is trying to do is the first step towards mastering the options. This is the reason our instructor teaches both methods to his students. He admits that single-point AF may feel awkward at first, “but with just a bit of practice it becomes second nature and way more accurate than letting your camera guess.”
Be sure to visit the Great Big Photography World YouTube channel after today’s lesson concludes and explore the many how-to videos available.
If you happen to be a pet owner don’t miss the tutorial we featured recently from another adept pro who demonstrates five simple techniques for capturing pixel-perfect photographs of your beloved furry friends.
