How to Focus Cameras on One Thing

Depth of field is a technical term used to describe the area of your photo that will be in focus.

The ability to hone in on one thing, or focus, is a valuable quality to consider when hiring someone to do a job for you. Similarly, the ability to focus a camera is one of the key markers of a good photographer. Being able to focus well can make or break a photo, especially if your subject is an NFL linebacker or a Ferrari. Being able to capture those moments and produce a clear and crisp image is something to strive for.

Instructions

1. Locate your subject in your viewfinder.

2. Press your shutter button half way down and watch for a red indicator light in your viewfinder. This light indicates that your camera has automatically made focal adjustments in an attempt to focus in on what it thinks you will want to focus in on.

3. Check to see if the object that you wish to focus on is sharper than the surrounding objects. Anything that is roughly the same distance from you as your selected object will also be in focus, but things in the foreground and background should be slightly blurred.

4. Press your shutter button down half way to refocus as many times as needed before taking the photo.

Tips & Warnings

• If your camera has an adjustable lens, you can also manually focus by turning the lens to the left or right. Turning to the left will focus in on objects that are further from you, while turning to the right will focus in on objects that are closer.

• If your object is moving and your camera cannot focus fast enough, you may need to invest in higher quality equipment. Sports photographers use high-speed cameras and special lenses to quickly hone in on fast-moving targets like football players.

References

• SLR Photography Guide: Focusing