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Category: How to Use Camera Lenses and Focus

Photography Question 

BetterPhoto Member
 

Automatic Focus Problem


When I am in automatic focus, the camera will focus, but when I go to press the button for a picture, it will not work. I can take a picture in manual focus, but the pictures are not coming out as clear as I would like them. Whey won't my shutter button work in AF?


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June 18, 2007

 

Jon Close
  It depends on the make/model of camera and lens. What Many have a default setting that will not allow the shutter to trip unless it can confirm focus, but they have an optional setting to fire the shutter at your command regardless of focus. While the image may look in focus in the viewfinder, the camera may not be able to confirm if there is not enough light, too little contrast, or if slightly closer than the minimum focusing distance.


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June 18, 2007

 

Tracy Green
  You did say what make/model your camera and lens is. I recently bought a Nikon D80 that came with a kit lens, the 18-135mm. I had the same problem you are describing with the AF, lens would focus and I would push the shutter button and it wouldn't take. Sometimes the lens would continue "searching" right past the focus point, even making a horrible squeaking noise at times. I tried another lens on the new camera body and it worked just fine, so I talked to Nikon and they determined that the new lens might be defective and had me send it to them. They repaired the lens and sent it back, and it worked like a charm!


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June 20, 2007

 
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