The digital cameras used today come with a range of features, such as different focusing modes. Often, this includes both manual and automatic focus. The subject and the circumstances you’re shooting under will determine whether manual focus is the most appropriate option.

Situations That Call for Manual Focus 

1. Low Light

When using automatic focus in low light, your lens may struggle to capture a picture and take longer to do so. While frustrating, this may also cause you to miss a shot while the lens attempts to focus. Putting the camera in manual allows you to select a focusing point yourself, ensuring a photo op won’t pass you by.

2. Still Photos

If your subject is not moving—such as a building or a bowl of fruit—automatic focus is the simplest solution. Though, if you have a specific part of the subject that you want to highlight, like a bird perched on the edge of a building, shooting in manual will allow you to select that focal point.  Manual Focus can many times be faster, easier and more accurate than using the autofocus set-ups.

3. Action Photography

Whether you’re photographing your child’s soccer game or fellow employees participating in an office field day, capturing the action depends on an in-focus lens. In many instances Autofocus is not fast enough or misses the point of desired focus due to direction, speed to backgrounds. To achieve crisp, dynamic images, put your camera in manual and pre-focus on a point that the subject in question will reach. For example; you can pre-focus on a stretch of the road a bicycle will move through, then, take the shot as the bicyclist is passing through the camera’s field of vision.

When you have questions about your photography equipment or are ready for an upgrade, it’s essential to have an expert in your corner. K & R Photographics in Fort Mitchell, KY, has been servicing the Tri-State area of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky since 1975. They carry a selection of top-quality professional imaging products, including cameras, printers, photography software, and digital accessories. Visit them online to view their selection of Nikon® and Canon® cameras, or call (859) 341-6986 for more tips on shooting in manual or automatic focus.