What To Know
- By using the AF-ON button, you can separate the focus activation from the exposure metering, giving you more control over the timing of your shots and allowing you to pre-focus on your subject before taking the picture.
- Use the multi-selector button on the back of the camera to move the active focus point around the grid.
- The camera offers multiple focus point selection modes, including “Single-point AF” (selects a single focus point), “Dynamic-area AF” (selects a group of focus points), and “Auto-area AF” (automatically selects the focus point based on the subject’s position).
The Nikon D750 is a powerful camera, but its full potential remains untapped without mastering autofocus. This guide will walk you through the simple yet crucial steps of enabling autofocus on your Nikon D750, ensuring you capture sharp and focused images every time.
Understanding Autofocus Modes
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to grasp the different autofocus modes available on your Nikon D750. These modes cater to various shooting scenarios, allowing you to fine-tune your focus settings for optimal results:
- Single-servo AF (AF-S): This mode is ideal for stationary subjects. It focuses once when you press the shutter button halfway down and locks the focus until you fully press the button to take the picture.
- Continuous-servo AF (AF-C): Designed for moving subjects, this mode continuously tracks the focus as the subject moves, ensuring sharp images even during action.
- Auto-area AF: This mode lets the camera automatically select the focus point based on the subject’s position within the frame. It’s a convenient option for general photography.
- Dynamic-area AF: Similar to Auto-area AF, but it allows you to select a group of focus points, giving you more control over the focus area.
- 3D-tracking: This advanced mode tracks the subject based on its color, size, and distance, providing accurate focus even with complex backgrounds.
The Essential Switch: AF-ON Button
The Nikon D750 features a dedicated AF-ON button, a powerful tool that gives you more control over your autofocus. Here’s how to utilize it:
1. Locate the AF-ON button: It’s usually positioned on the back of the camera, near the shutter button.
2. Customize its function: Access the camera menu and navigate to the “Custom Setting Menu” (the wrench icon).
3. Select “a1: AF-ON Button” and choose “AF-ON for AF activation.” This setting allows you to activate autofocus by pressing the AF-ON button instead of the shutter button halfway down.
By using the AF-ON button, you can separate the focus activation from the exposure metering, giving you more control over the timing of your shots and allowing you to pre-focus on your subject before taking the picture.
Enabling Autofocus in the Menu
While the AF-ON button provides a powerful way to control focus, the camera’s menu offers various settings to further customize your autofocus experience:
1. Access the “Custom Setting Menu“: Locate the wrench icon in the camera’s menu system.
2. Navigate to “a1: AF-ON Button”: This setting allows you to choose whether you want to use the AF-ON button for autofocus activation or other functions.
3. Select “AF-ON for AF activation.” This will enable the AF-ON button to activate autofocus.
Navigating the Focus Points
The Nikon D750 boasts a sophisticated autofocus system with multiple focus points. Understanding how to select and utilize these points is crucial for achieving precise focus:
1. Viewfinder Focus Points: Look through the viewfinder and you’ll see a grid of small squares, representing the available focus points.
2. Select a Focus Point: Use the multi-selector button on the back of the camera to move the active focus point around the grid.
3. Focus Point Selection Modes: The camera offers multiple focus point selection modes, including “Single-point AF” (selects a single focus point), “Dynamic-area AF” (selects a group of focus points), and “Auto-area AF” (automatically selects the focus point based on the subject’s position).
Focus Modes and Their Applications
Choosing the right autofocus mode is essential for capturing sharp images. Here’s a breakdown of the different modes and their ideal applications:
- AF-S (Single-servo AF): Perfect for stationary subjects like landscapes, portraits, and still life. This mode locks focus once you half-press the shutter button, ensuring a sharp image even if the subject is slightly out of focus initially.
- AF-C (Continuous-servo AF): Ideal for capturing moving subjects like sports, wildlife, and action. This mode continuously tracks the subject as it moves, ensuring sharp images even if the subject is in motion.
- AF-A (Auto-area AF): This mode automatically selects the focus point based on the subject’s position in the frame. It’s a convenient option for general photography where you don’t need to manually select the focus point.
Troubleshooting Common Autofocus Issues
Even with the right settings, autofocus issues can arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Focus is not locking: Ensure the subject is well-lit and has sufficient contrast. Check your lens for dust or debris.
- Camera is hunting: Try using a different autofocus mode. Ensure the subject is not moving too fast.
- Focus is inaccurate: Calibrate your lens using the Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software. Check your lens for a faulty autofocus motor.
Beyond the Basics: Fine-Tuning Autofocus
For advanced users, the Nikon D750 offers a range of features to refine your autofocus experience:
- Focus Area Modes: Experiment with different focus area modes to find the best fit for your shooting style.
- Focus Tracking Sensitivity: Adjust the focus tracking sensitivity to match the speed of your subject.
- Focus Point Selection: Practice using the multi-selector to select specific focus points for precise focusing.
Mastering Focus: The Key to Success
Understanding and mastering autofocus is crucial for achieving sharp and focused images with your Nikon D750. By utilizing the AF-ON button, exploring the various autofocus modes, and fine-tuning your settings, you can unlock the full potential of your camera and capture stunning images in any scenario.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: My autofocus is not working. What should I do?
A: Ensure the autofocus switch on your lens is set to “AF” and not “MF.” Check the battery level and make sure the camera is in a shooting mode that supports autofocus.
Q: Why is my camera hunting for focus?
A: Hunting occurs when the camera struggles to find focus. This can be caused by low light, a lack of contrast in the subject, or a fast-moving subject. Try using a different autofocus mode, increasing the shutter speed, or adjusting the focus area.
Q: What is the difference between AF-S and AF-C?
A: AF-S (Single-servo AF) is for stationary subjects, while AF-C (Continuous-servo AF) is for moving subjects. AF-S locks focus once, while AF-C continuously tracks focus as the subject moves.
Q: How do I calibrate my lens?
A: You can calibrate your lens using the Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software. This software allows you to adjust the autofocus fine-tuning settings for each lens.
Q: Can I use manual focus with the Nikon D750?
A: Yes, the Nikon D750 allows you to use manual focus. Simply switch the autofocus switch on your lens to “MF.
