How to get sharper results without AF
Canon EOS R System cameras have taken AI autofocus to another level.
The intelligent subject detection in models such as the EOS R6 Mark II and EOS R3 is so good that you really can let the camera take care of autofocusing, while you work on other aspects of creating a great photo.
There are still occasions when you’ll want to touch up the focus distance manually or take complete control though. If there’s not enough contrast between the subject and the rest of the scene, for example, then there won’t be anything for the AF system to ‘bite’ onto. The lens will repeatedly try to focus back and forth, from the closest distance to the horizon and back again, without locking on. The same can happen in low light conditions.
Fast subjects can cause problems too, particularly for EOS cameras that aren’t equipped with a slew of sensitive AF points or the latest DIGIC X image processor. Pre-focusing the lens at a point where you anticipate the subject is going to appear, and then switching the lens to manual focus (MF), can allow you to capture a shot without delay when the subject appears. The drawback is that the camera won’t refocus as the subject moves.
Some shooting situations can confuse the AF system such as shooting through a window where the AF might lock onto a reflection or the glass. But taking charge of manual focusing isn’t as dauntin
