What To Know
- The Canon 80D allows you to select a specific focus point, or even multiple points, to ensure your subject is in sharp focus.
- By manually selecting your focus point, you take control of the camera’s autofocus system, allowing you to focus on exactly what you want, even in challenging situations.
- You can adjust the size of the focus point by pressing the “SET” button and using the Multi-controller to navigate through the options.
The Canon 80D is a powerful DSLR camera that offers a wide range of features, including a sophisticated autofocus system. Understanding how to change focus points on your Canon 80D is crucial for capturing sharp, well-composed images. This blog post will guide you through the process, empowering you to take full control of your focus and achieve stunning results.
Understanding the Canon 80D Autofocus System
The Canon 80D boasts a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, providing exceptional accuracy and speed. This means that each focus point can detect contrast in both horizontal and vertical directions, resulting in faster and more reliable focusing.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Focus Point
The Canon 80D allows you to select a specific focus point, or even multiple points, to ensure your subject is in sharp focus. Here’s why this is so important:
- Sharper Images: Selecting the correct focus point ensures that the crucial part of your image is sharp, while the background can be slightly blurred for artistic effect.
- Improved Composition: Choosing a focus point can help you create more dynamic compositions by drawing the viewer’s eye to a specific area of the image.
- Greater Control: By manually selecting your focus point, you take control of the camera’s autofocus system, allowing you to focus on exactly what you want, even in challenging situations.
Methods for Changing Focus Points on Your Canon 80D
There are a few different ways to change focus points on your Canon 80D. Let’s explore each method:
1. Using the Multi-controller
The Multi-controller, located on the back of your camera, is a versatile tool for navigating menus and adjusting settings. It also plays a key role in changing focus points. Here’s how to do it:
- Navigate to the Live View Mode: Press the Live View button on the back of your camera to enter Live View mode.
- Use the Multi-controller: With the Multi-controller, you can move the active focus point around the screen. The selected focus point will be highlighted.
- Adjust Focus Point Size: You can adjust the size of the focus point by pressing the “SET” button and using the Multi-controller to navigate through the options.
2. Using the AF Point Selection Button
The dedicated “AF Point Selection” button, located near the lens release button, provides a direct way to choose your focus point. Here’s how it works:
- Press the AF Point Selection Button: Press this button to activate the focus point selection mode.
- Use the Multi-controller: Use the Multi-controller to select the desired focus point. The selected point will be highlighted.
3. Using the Quick Control Screen
The Quick Control Screen, accessed by pressing the “Q” button, offers a visual representation of the focus points and allows you to adjust settings quickly. Here’s how to change focus points using this method:
- Access the Quick Control Screen: Press the “Q” button to bring up the Quick Control Screen.
- Navigate to the Focus Point Selection: Use the Multi-controller to navigate to the “AF Point Selection” option.
- Choose Your Focus Point: Use the Multi-controller to select the desired focus point.
Advanced Focus Point Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics of changing focus points, you can explore these advanced techniques to take your photography to the next level:
1. Using Zone AF
Zone AF allows you to select a group of focus points, rather than just one. This is particularly helpful when your subject is moving or when you’re unsure of the exact position of your subject within the frame. Here’s how to use Zone AF:
- Navigate to the AF Area Mode: Access the camera’s menu and navigate to the “AF Area Mode” option.
- Select Zone AF: Choose the “Zone AF” option from the available choices.
- Select Your Zone: Use the Multi-controller to select the zone of focus points you want to activate.
2. Using AI Servo AF
AI Servo AF is a powerful tracking mode that helps you keep your subject in focus even when it’s moving. This is ideal for photographing sports, wildlife, or any subject that requires continuous focus. Here’s how to use AI Servo AF:
- Select AI Servo AF: Access the camera’s menu and set the AF mode to “AI Servo AF.”
- Track Your Subject: As your subject moves, the camera will automatically track it and keep it in focus.
Mastering Focus: Tips for Success
- Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice changing focus points, the more comfortable you’ll become with the process.
- Experiment with Different Focus Modes: Try out different focus modes, such as Single-shot AF, AI Servo AF, and Zone AF, to see which works best for your shooting style.
- Understand Your Subject: Before you start shooting, take a moment to consider your subject and where you want to place the focus point.
- Use the Live View Mode: Live View mode provides a magnified view of your subject, making it easier to select the precise focus point.
- Check Your Focus: Always check your focus after taking a shot, especially when using manual focus.
Final Thoughts: Unleash Your Creative Vision
By mastering how to change focus points on your Canon 80D, you unlock a world of creative possibilities. Take the time to experiment, practice, and explore the different techniques available to you. With a little effort, you’ll be able to capture stunning, sharp images that showcase your unique vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I change the focus point while shooting in continuous shooting mode?
A: Yes, you can change the focus point while shooting in continuous shooting mode. However, the camera’s autofocus system may not be able to track your subject as effectively if you change focus points frequently.
Q: How do I know if my focus point is accurate?
A: You can check your focus by using the magnification feature in Live View mode. This will allow you to zoom in on your subject and ensure that it is in sharp focus.
Q: What is the difference between single-shot AF and AI Servo AF?
A: Single-shot AF is best for stationary subjects, while AI Servo AF is designed for moving subjects. Single-shot AF locks the focus on the selected point, while AI Servo AF continuously tracks the subject.
Q: Why is it important to choose the correct focus point?
A: Choosing the correct focus point ensures that the most important part of your image is sharp, while the background can be slightly blurred for artistic effect. It also helps you create more dynamic compositions by drawing the viewer’s eye to a specific area of the image.
