Learning Photography: Autofocus

Master your camera's autofocus features and learn the creative options surrounding focus, bokeh, and depth of field.

Focus is a core photographic concept. Autofocus makes the job easier. But behind this simple concept is an array of technical considerations and creative options. Which one of your camera's autofocus modes will give you the best results for specific shooting scenarios? When should you take control and manually focus? And do you want everything in the frame in focus, or just your subject?

Photographer and educator Tim Grey explores these questions and more in this exploration of focus and autofocus. And because sharpness isn't everything, Tim also details scenarios where blur can have more impact.

Introduction

• Introduction to focus and autofocus

1. Understanding the Basics of Focus

• What is focus?
• Understanding depth of field
• Calculating depth of field
• Looking at focus limitations
• Hyperfocal distance

2. Looking at Ways to Adjust Focus

• Employing autofocus one shot vs. continuous
• Back button focus control and focus lock
• Understanding manual focus
• Making diopter adjustments
• Establishing close focus using extension tubes

3. Exploring Focus Points

• Setting and choosing focus points
• Zone vs. single point vs. range
• Autofocus and mirrorless cameras

4. Understanding Depth of Field and Creative Focus

• Controlling depth of field
• Depth of field preview
• Getting creative using less obvious focus
• Intentional blur and bokeh
• Finding focus while panning

Conclusion

• Next steps