Mastering Your DSLR Part 6 - Accurate Focusing

Your DSLR camera will autofocus very well in most situations as the technology today is very accurate but it will let you down on some occasions. Hence you need to know in advance when that is likely to occur so that you can take charge and adjust accordingly. Most DSLR cameras obtain focus when the shutter button is pressed half way down and confirmation of the focusing is provided by either a beeping noise and/or a green or red light seen through the viewfinder. When the button is pressed fully down the photo is then taken. Digital cameras collect focus information in various ways and then evaluate it to produce the correct focus. The image will be in sharp focus at the position of highest contrast between the differing parts of the image. DSLRs have a number of points of focus (focal points), with the actual number depending on the model and make of the digital SLR camera. Most DSLRs will allow you to change the focus point manually to any of the predetermined focus points in the viewfinder. It is generally best to start with the centre focus point (the central sensor and the most sensitive) within the viewfinder as your default position and then move to another focus point to suit the subject you are shooting. This way you won't forget where your focus point is located and not wonder later why your photos are out of focus. If the image in the viewfinder doesn't look as sharp as you would expect then first check if the viewfinder diopter (under the eyecup) needs adjustment to suit your eye. One way . . . (to read the remainder of this article, please log in below.)