SUMMARY
A beginner's guide to camera autofocus explains the three key layers for achieving sharp focus: AF modes, AF area modes, and subject detection. AF modes determine how the camera focuses, with Single AF locking focus on stationary subjects and Continuous AF tracking moving subjects. AF area modes dictate where the camera looks, ranging from a single point for precise control to zones for broader coverage. Modern cameras also incorporate AI subject detection to simplify tracking, making Continuous AF with subject detection a versatile option for many situations.
TAKEAWAYS
Single AF is best for stationary subjects like portraits and landscapes.
Continuous AF is essential for tracking moving subjects in sports or wildlife photography.
AF area modes allow you to select where the camera focuses, from a single point to a zone.
AI subject detection in modern cameras aids in automatically tracking subjects.