Nearly all dSLR cameras come with a variety of focus modes. Knowing how these work can be helpful in getting a crisp, sharp focus in different shooting situations.
One shot (Canon)/AF-S(NIkon) – This is the standard mode of focusing. When the shutter button is pressed halfway, the camera will lock in a single focus and retain it until you either take the shot or release the button. This is good for stationary subjects or subjects that are moving parallel to you, but not coming closer or moving farther away. It allows you to focus and then recompose the shot for a better composition.
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AI Servo (Canon)/AF-C (Nikon) – In this mode, once the shutter is pressed halfway, the camera continuously focuses. It attempts to detect motion of the subject in your frame and refocuses until you take the shot. This is great for sports or other action photography when the subject is moving.
AI Focus (Canon)/AF-A (Nikon) – This mode is a combination of the previous two. It begins in One Shot mode but switches modes to AI Servo if it detects movement in the frame. This can be useful if you want the ability to focus and recompose but then also to catch any quick action. For example, you’re taking portraits of a child who is sitting still but also want to catch them in motion when they suddenly jump up and take off.
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Manual – This, of course, is when you do the focusing yourself by adjusting the lens. This is handy for shooting macro when the depth of field is very shallow and your focus must be very precise. It is also helpful for shooting in low-light situations when your camera “hunts” or can’t find something to focus on, as well as when shooting through glass or a fence where the camera has a hard time determining what to focus on and you end up with a shot of the glass reflection or fence wires. If you’re shooting in manual, make sure you’ve set your diopter properly.
(Don’t worry about that guy up there, he’s just having a nap.)
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