How can you master burst mode and continuous autofocus?

2 What is continuous autofocus?

Continuous autofocus, also known as AI Servo or AF-C, is a camera setting that adjusts the focus automatically as your subject moves within the frame. Unlike single autofocus, which locks the focus on a fixed point, continuous autofocus tracks the subject and keeps it sharp throughout the burst. Continuous autofocus is essential for burst mode photography, as it ensures that your images are not blurry or out of focus.

3 How to set up burst mode and continuous autofocus?

The steps to set up burst mode and continuous autofocus may differ depending on your camera model and menu options. Generally, you can activate burst mode by selecting the multiple rectangle icon on a dial or button. You can also adjust the speed of the burst mode in the drive mode or continuous shooting settings. To activate continuous autofocus, select the AF-C or AI Servo option on a dial or button. You can also adjust the sensitivity and tracking of the continuous autofocus in the autofocus or custom settings. These general guidelines will help you get started with burst mode and continuous autofocus.

4 How to use burst mode and continuous autofocus effectively?

Once you have set up burst mode and continuous autofocus on your camera, you can start shooting. To maximize the effectiveness of these features and improve your results, use a fast shutter speed such as 1/500s or higher, select a suitable focus point or area, set a burst mode timer, and review and edit your images. A single focus point is more precise, but a group of focus points or a wide focus area is more flexible. A burst mode timer can help you avoid camera shake and anticipate the action better. After shooting in burst mode, use your camera's playback or review mode to delete unwanted or blurry images and keep the best ones. You can also use a photo editing software to crop, adjust, or enhance your images.

5 What are the benefits and challenges of burst mode and continuous autofocus?

Burst mode and continuous autofocus are powerful tools that can help you capture amazing images of moving subjects, but they also come with benefits and challenges. These tools can help you capture the decisive moment, create interesting effects, and improve your skills as a photographer. However, they can also fill up your memory card and battery faster, require more storage space and editing time, create noise or artifacts in your images, and make you rely too much on your camera. To use them effectively, you need to understand how they work, how to set them up, and how to use them. With practice and refinement, burst mode and continuous autofocus can take your photography to the next level and help you capture stunning images of moving subjects.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?