 Dennis Martineau |
Prefocusing Anyone willing to explain to me how to prefocus? Are some photographers able to estimate a distance, set the lens to that distance, then go according to the depth of field for a sharp image? Reason I ask is that I want to become good at getting candids, since whenever someone sees the camera at my eye, they go into a pose and it seems unnatural. Thank you.
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Jon Close |
That's exactly it. To prefocus you need a lens with a focus distance scale so that you can set approximate focus without bringing the camera up to your eye. There's a saying (I forget to whom it's attributed) that to get great photos - especially candids - "f/8 and be there". f/8 because of the larger depth of field and most lenses are sharpest at that aperture. Another hint for candids is to use a wide angle lens or zoom setting (35mm, 28mm, 24mm) so that with the camera hanging from your neck or otherwise held casually, you can turn in the general direction of your subject and snap the photo without raising the camera to your eye.
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Tony Sweet |
I agree with Jon's comments. In addition, you could also prefocus on a subject that is on the same visual plane as your human will be. For example, prefocus on a log or a table or a lamp post. And, as Jon said, use f/8, which is a good general f/stop and will be deep enough to render sharpness, even if your prefocus area is off a bit. Good luck!
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- Greg McCroskery Contact Greg McCroskery Greg McCroskery's Gallery |
Dennis, Jon and Tony both are correct. One consideration is what type of situation you are photographing. If you are photographing an event such as a party or wedding reception, use the distance scale on your lens to prefocus for a specific distance (for example 8 feet), then place yourself at that approximate distance from any given person without indicating that you are about to photograph them (you can even act like your going to photograph someone else to catch them off guard). Using a moderate wide angle lens and a small aperture such as f8 will help assure sharp focus. If you are photographing in a situation that does not allow you to position yourself as I suggested above, then Tony's technique would be necessary. God Bless.
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Dennis Martineau |
Thanks to all of you. Your suggestions (lessons) cleared the fog. Great website.
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