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Photography Question 

Barbara J. Eads
 

Focus with a canon 20d


This question is for anyone with a canon 20d, I like to photograph the ocean quite alot, I do find it hard to keep the ocean in focus at times.. What auto focus mode would be the best to use? Al focus, Al Servo or one shot? Like some advice. Thanks, Barb Eads


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March 17, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  I would probably try focusing manually. This is what I do when I can not get a good focus. HTH


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March 18, 2006

 

Barbara J. Eads
  Thanks Sharon, I will try this. Barb


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March 18, 2006

 
- Bob Cournoyer

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  Or try "A-dep"?


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March 18, 2006

 

Barbara J. Eads
  Bob, I have tried A-dep, but I don't get the depth of field I want.


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March 18, 2006

 

Justin G.
  You're best bet with a flat (not litterally, but with the tones) subject would be to manual focus. Focus on what you want, and then use the DOF preview to view your DOF you have set and make sure it's what you want. Also you have the advantage of digital. Shoot the shot, check your LCD, and if it's not perfect shoot it again.


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March 18, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  Sounds funny to hear somebody say they can't get the ocean in focus. This sounds like a small apeture/tripod solution.


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March 18, 2006

 

Barbara J. Eads
  I think I will re-phrase my question, In one's opinion with autofocus, would it be better to focus in one shot, al focus, or al servo when photographing the ocean while hand holding the camera.


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March 18, 2006

 

Justin G.
  I still think it would be better to manual focus. It's like trying to focus on a solid wall at an angle.


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March 18, 2006

 

Barbara J. Eads
  Thanks Justin. Like I said before, I will try manual focusing.


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March 18, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Isn't al servo continuous focusing? I personally HATE that unless I'm shooting action. I have a Nikon but I think it's all basically the same thing. IF manual wasn't an option for me I'd go with AI focus single. I like manual and hyper focus for situations where I can't get focus though. Here's a site where you can calculate the DOF.

http://www.dofmaster.com/dofjs.html


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March 18, 2006

 

Samuel Smith
  i believe gregory is on the right track.aperature priority and a tripod.remote release also.why even take a chance on camera shake?
i really like your sunset photos.
sam


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March 18, 2006

 
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