Customizing autofocus
Tailor the AF response to suit the subject
When it comes to fine-tuning the autofocus functions, EOS bodies offer a comprehensive level of customization – although where you enable and disable options in the menu depends on your camera. Some have a dedicated ‘Autofocus’ section in the Custom Functions menu, while others have a similar set of customization options available in their dedicated ‘AF’ menu.
To change the subjecttracking sensitivity of the AF system on the EOS 90D, for example, you need to head for ‘C.FN II-1: Tracking sensitivity’ in the Custom Functions menu. But you’ll find the same option available under the AF Configuration Tool in the EOS 5D Mark IV’S AF menu.
The advanced autofocus customization options aren’t something to explore on the spur of the moment, particularly if you’re using one of the more high-spec EOS cameras. Set aside time to experiment with the different custom settings. You may find that you prefer different set-ups for different subjects, in which case you can assign these to different Custom Modes on the camera, if yours offers this function.
Some good options, if available, are ‘Tracing sensitivity’, ‘Acceleration/ deceleration tracking’ and ‘AF point auto switching’ – all of which are now more commonly found in the ‘AF config. tool’ in the AF menu.
Some photographers like to remove AF activation from the shutter release button and instead assign it to either the AF-ON or AE lock button (eg back button focusing) via the Custom Function menu (see below). This set-up allows you to stop the autofocus when a moving subject is stationary (by taking your thumb off AF-ON or AE Lock) while continuing to take photos.