Say Goodbye to Slow Shutter Speeds: How to Set Back Button Focus on Canon 6D Mark II

The Canon 6D Mark II is a powerful camera, but its default autofocus system can sometimes feel limiting. If you’re looking to take control of your focus and achieve more precise results, especially for wildlife, sports, or fast-paced action, then learning how to set back button focus on Canon 6D Mark II is a game-changer. This technique allows you to decouple the autofocus function from the shutter release button, leading to a more intuitive and responsive shooting experience.

Why Back Button Focus is a Game Changer

Traditional autofocus relies on the shutter release button to both focus and take the picture. This can be problematic, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects. The act of pressing the shutter release button to focus can cause camera shake, and the camera might focus on the wrong subject in a cluttered scene.
Back button focus solves these issues by allowing you to:

• Focus independently: You can focus on your subject by pressing a dedicated button (usually the “AF-ON” button) without triggering the shutter. This allows you to pre-focus on your subject and be ready to capture the moment when it’s right.
• Reduce camera shake: By separating focusing from the shutter release, you eliminate the shake that can occur when you press the shutter button, leading to sharper images.
• Improve accuracy: You can focus on your desired subject without accidentally triggering the shutter, especially in complex scenes with multiple subjects.
• Enhance responsiveness: You can quickly refocus on a moving subject without having to go through the entire focusing process again.

Setting Up Back Button Focus on your Canon 6D Mark II

Here’s how to set up back button focus on your Canon 6D Mark II:
1. Access the Custom Functions Menu: Press the “Menu” button on the camera.
2. Navigate to the “Custom Functions” Tab: Use the navigation buttons to highlight the “Custom Functions” tab (usually denoted by a wrench icon).
3. Select “Custom Controls” (C.Fn): Scroll down to the “Custom Controls” option and press “Set.”
4. Choose “AF-ON Button” (C.Fn 3-1): Find the option labeled “AF-ON Button” (C.Fn 3-1) and press “Set.”
5. Select “AF-ON Button Function” (C.Fn 3-1-1): You’ll see a list of options. Choose “AF-ON Button Function” (C.Fn 3-1-1) and press “Set.”
6. Set the AF-ON Button to “Focus” (C.Fn 3-1-1-1): Highlight the option “Focus” (C.Fn 3-1-1-1) and press “Set.”
Now, when you press the “AF-ON” button, the camera will focus without triggering the shutter. You can then press the shutter release to take the picture.

Understanding the “AF-ON” Button

The “AF-ON” button is typically located on the back of your Canon 6D Mark II, near the shutter release button. It’s a small, round button that you can easily press with your thumb.

Using Back Button Focus in Practice

Once you’ve set up back button focus, here’s how to use it effectively:
1. Pre-Focus: Before you press the shutter release button, press the “AF-ON” button to focus on your subject.
2. Compose your shot: Adjust the composition of your image while keeping the “AF-ON” button pressed.
3. Trigger the shutter: When you’re ready to take the picture, release the “AF-ON” button and press the shutter release button.

Tips for Using Back Button Focus

• Practice makes perfect: It takes a bit of practice to get used to back button focus, but it’s worth the effort.
• Use continuous autofocus: For moving subjects, use continuous autofocus mode (AI Servo or Servo AF).
• Experiment with different focusing modes: Try different focusing modes, such as single-shot autofocus (One-Shot AF) and zone autofocus, to find what works best for your shooting style.
• Consider using a custom function: Some photographers prefer to use a custom function (C.Fn) to assign the “AF-ON” button to a different function, such as “Metering Mode” or “Drive Mode.”

Back Button Focus for Different Photography Genres

Back button focus is particularly beneficial for genres like:

• Wildlife photography: It allows you to focus on a moving animal without accidentally triggering the shutter.
• Sports photography: It helps you keep your subject in focus even when it’s moving quickly.
• Street photography: It allows you to focus on your subject discreetly without drawing attention.
• Macro photography: It helps you achieve precise focus on tiny subjects.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Back Button Focus Techniques

For experienced photographers, there are several advanced techniques to further refine your back button focus workflow:

• Focus bracketing: Use back button focus to capture a series of images with different focus points, which can be later combined into a single image with greater depth of field.
• Back button focus with manual focus: You can use the “AF-ON” button to focus manually, allowing for greater control over the focus point.
• Using back button focus for video: You can use back button focus to keep your subject in focus while shooting video.

The Power of Control: Back Button Focus for Every Photographer

Mastering back button focus on your Canon 6D Mark II empowers you to take control of your autofocus system and elevate your photography. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this technique can significantly enhance your ability to capture sharp, well-composed images.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Do I need to use back button focus all the time?
A: No, back button focus is a personal preference. Some photographers find it more intuitive, while others prefer the traditional method. Experiment with both techniques to see what works best for you.
Q: Can I use back button focus with other Canon cameras?
A: Yes, most Canon cameras with autofocus capabilities allow you to use back button focus. The specific settings and menu options may vary depending on the camera model.
Q: What are the disadvantages of back button focus?
A: Some photographers find it takes time to adjust to using back button focus, and it may not be ideal for shooting very fast-moving subjects.
Q: Can I use back button focus with the Canon 6D Mark II‘s autofocus system?
A: Yes, back button focus works seamlessly with the Canon 6D Mark II‘s autofocus system. It allows you to control the autofocus function independently from the shutter release button.