Knowing Which Focus Modes To Use In Digital Cameras

While some of the least expensive digital camerasIn continuous auto focus the camera continuously
have only automatic focus, meaning the camera doesfocuses on the objects in the photo. In this mode
all the work on bringing your subject into the bestthe camera continuously corrects the focus as the
possible focus, most SLR digitals offer three differentobjects distance from the camera changes. This
focus modes: manual, single auto focus andmode is useful when you shoot photos of moving
continuous auto focus. All three of these will beobjects such as a race car during a race or airplanes
addressed here.during an air show. You can hold the shutter button
With manual focus, the camera stays out of thehalf way down and continuously move the camera to
focus equation and you, the photographer, make allfollow the object. The camera will continuously keep
the decisions regarding this. This is done by settingthe object in focus.
different buttons or actually using an attachedLike any other feature automatic and manual focus
focusing ring that rotates on the camera lens. Formodes have their pros and cons. The first step to
those who like to have complete creative control ofusing them to your advantage is to understand how
the finished product, this is the best focus mode.they work and what they were designed for. The
In single auto focus mode, the camera automaticallynext step is to experiment shoot photos using
focuses when you press the shutter button either alldifferent focus modes and different types of
the way down to shoot a photo or half way downobjects and see how the camera behaves. Once you
to lock the focus. This mode is useful when shootinghave done that you will be ready to instinctively use
static objects.the best focus mode for each photo situation.