11 replies to this topic

[Sante]

Autofocus on the AF-C mode doesn't seem to work well, any tips on how to use feature well to your advantage in taking moving subjects?

[K-9]

Which lens are you using? Some might be slower at keeping up with the action.

[Adam]

Autofocus on the AF-C mode doesn't seem to work well, any tips on how to use feature well to your advantage in taking moving subjects?

What lens & camera?

[Sante]

I use Nikon D7000, lens Nikkor DX 55-300. Thanks for responding.

[K-9]

Hi, I do not have that lens, but I have seen some reviews of it that say is slow to autofocus on subjects you are tracking. Sorry, but if this is the case, you are limited to the lens' limitations.

[Sante]

thanks for feedback.

[Afterimage]

Autofocus on the AF-C mode doesn't seem to work well, any tips on how to use feature well to your advantage in taking moving subjects?

You're using AF-C but what AF Zone are you using? The d39 AF Zone setting on the D7000 might seem like it's the best because "it's more!" but, in reality, it's allowing the camera to look all over the place to track your subject. The faster the subject the SMALLER the AF Zone should be. 

 

d39 is great for slower objects that fill the frame.  A zoomed in picture of someone walking is a good example.

d21 is good for large fast moving objects. Cars going by on a race track for example

d9 is the best for very fast objects where you are rapidly panning to keep up with them. Birds in flight or flowers swaying in the breeze fits this bill.

 

Try changing the AF Zone settings, I bet it will give you a higher percentage of in-focus shots.

[Sante]

I would surely try your advise Afterimage, thanks.

[alden]

Some lenses hunt more than others. That one does. 

[PrettyCranium]

I had a similar issue with that lens, so I think that might be it.

[onewiththecamera]

You want to make sure you have as few focus spots as you need to get the spot solidly on the subject that is moving. The other key is to learn to track the subject really well. You need to keep that focus spot solidly on the subject. The faster the lens focuses the better it will track too. This is where getting a more expensive lens often helps. Also, the focus points in the center are cross type focus points. These will be able to lock focus much better than the ones around the edges.

[TBonz]

I haven't used that lens, but I expect the comments above are right on.  Not sure if you're getting anything in focus or if you're getting some shots good and some not.  The reality of shooting sports which in most cases means moving objects, is that you will miss focus on some if you are following the action and trying to catch everything you can.