> I really don't know if this needs saying, but also remember that
> usually all the camera needs in order to acquire focus is some *edge*
> between objects, some contrasty feature. 9 times out of 10 in low
> light situations I can find a contrasty feature at the same or similar
> distance as the subject, or switch FP's, and focus lock. Hell, point
> the camera at a blank wall in EV 10 light and it won't focus.
>
> Have we forgotten how to manual focus? Use hyperfocal distance?
> Dependence on auto focus should not be so absolute,
Right on, Ken about relying on AF so much we forget how easy manual
focus used to be, and still is.
However, you mention an EOS can't focus on a blank wall at EV10... well,
my old EOS10 amazes me at it's ability to focus on a blank wall, well below
that light level. (I might add, with 'crappy' zoom lenses :-)
I usually always have my EOS set for centre focus point only. Everytime
I have tried using the other points, I get screwed up when the camera
chooses a point that I don't really want in primary focus. Like it focused
on the ear - sorry I'd like the eyes in focus thanks. This means I miss that
shot, and that is not good. I've gotten real good at flipping off AF on the
lens now, and in most cases I find myself flipping it off before raising the
camera to my eye. I would suggest that most PROs do this too. This AF stuff
has it's place, but relying on it is an amateur point and shoot attitude. By
the way, just because you have an amateur EOS model does not mean you can't
shoot it like a pro.
The important thing for me is to focus when I'm framing. That is all
important to me on every shot I take. Course I can touch up focus after Af,
but what if I remove my finger from the shutter button - bingo, AF goes to
work again. Much better to turn the AF off before hand, rather than risk
lose the moment.
I have not yet found any situation where AF would really help me. But
the camera's ability to AF in low light, and on a blank wall does impress
me. I can't say I can ever remember the camera not focusing right away,
don't remember any lens hunting ever.
Let's all try a bit of manual focusing. Just because a camera CAN
autofocus, does NOT mean we have to let it. After all, WE are in control, WE
decide the focus point that makes our photos creative, and the way WE want
them to look. I'm a little tired of hearing how photos didn't turn out the
way they should have because the camera screwed up the focus, or wouldn't
focus in low light.
Here is what I think: "If you're not focusing, you're just pushing a
button."
Jim Davis (in Japan)
webpage: http://www.kjsl.com/~jbdavis/
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
1985/86 K100RS "Rocket Sled"
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