Shoot Like a Pro: How to Turn Off Autofocus Canon 60D

The Canon 60D is a versatile camera, but sometimes, you need complete control over your focus. Whether you’re shooting macro photography, astrophotography, or simply prefer the artistic freedom of manual focus, knowing how to turn off autofocus on your Canon 60D is essential. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to achieve sharp, in-focus images, even without the aid of autofocus.

Understanding the Importance of Manual Focus

Autofocus, while incredibly convenient, can sometimes hinder your creative vision. Here are some scenarios where manual focus reigns supreme:

• Macro Photography: The shallow depth of field in macro photography demands precise focus control, which autofocus struggles to achieve.
• Astrophotography: Stars are often too faint for autofocus to lock onto, making manual focus essential for capturing those celestial wonders.
• Vintage Lenses: Many vintage lenses lack autofocus capabilities, requiring you to take manual control.
• Creative Blur: Manual focus allows you to intentionally blur elements in your composition for artistic effect.
• Fine-Tuning Focus: In situations where autofocus struggles, manual focus allows you to fine-tune the focus point for optimal sharpness.

Methods for Turning Off Autofocus on your Canon 60D

The Canon 60D offers several ways to disable autofocus, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

1. Using the AF/MF Switch on the Lens

The most straightforward method:

• Locate the AF/MF switch: This switch is typically found on the side of your lens.
• Set the switch to “MF”: This will disable autofocus and allow you to control focus manually using the lens’s focus ring.

Pros:

• Simple and quick.
• No need to access the camera’s menu.

Cons:

• Requires remembering to switch the lens back to AF when needed.
• Not all lenses have an AF/MF switch.

2. Using the Camera’s Menu

For more permanent control:

• Access the camera’s menu: Press the “Menu” button on the back of the camera.
• Navigate to the “Drive” menu: This is where you’ll find the autofocus settings.
• Select “AF/MF” or “Focus Mode”: The exact name may vary slightly depending on your camera’s firmware.
• Choose “Manual”: This will disable autofocus for all shooting modes.

Pros:

• Allows you to set manual focus as the default.
• Offers more control over autofocus settings.

Cons:

• Requires accessing the camera’s menu, which can be time-consuming.

3. Using the Focus Mode Button

For quick switching between AF and MF:

• Locate the Focus Mode button: This button is typically found on the back of the camera, near the shutter release button.
• Press and hold the Focus Mode button: This will cycle through the available focus modes.
• Select “MF”: This will disable autofocus and allow you to focus manually.

Pros:

• Provides quick and easy access to manual focus.
• Allows you to switch between AF and MF modes rapidly.

Cons:

• Requires remembering the button combination.

Mastering Manual Focus Techniques

Once you’ve disabled autofocus, you’ll need to learn how to focus manually. Here are some tips for achieving sharp images with manual focus:

1. Use the Focus Ring

• Turn the focus ring: This will move the lens elements to adjust focus.
• Rotate slowly and carefully: Avoid overshooting the focus point.
• Use the focus magnification: Zoom in on your subject to ensure precise focus.

2. Utilize Live View

• Enable Live View: This allows you to see a magnified view of your subject on the camera’s LCD screen.
• Focus using the focus ring: The Live View mode provides a real-time view of the focus plane.
• Use the focus peaking feature: This feature highlights the edges of in-focus areas, making it easier to determine sharpness.

3. Employ Focus Bracketing

• Take multiple shots at different focus points: This technique creates a series of images with varying focus points.
• Combine the images in post-processing: Software like Photoshop can be used to blend the images and create a single, perfectly focused image.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Manual Focus Techniques

For those seeking to elevate their manual focus skills, here are some advanced techniques:

1. Back Button Focus

• Reassign the AF-ON button: This button is typically used to activate autofocus.
• Use the AF-ON button for manual focus: This allows you to focus manually without pressing the shutter release button.
• Benefits: Improved focus accuracy, reduced camera shake, and faster shooting.

2. Focus Stacking

• Take multiple images at different focus points: Similar to focus bracketing, but with more control over the focus range.
• Stack the images in post-processing: Software like Helicon Focus can be used to create a single image with an extended depth of field.
• Benefits: Allows you to capture incredible detail in macro and landscape photography.

The Rewards of Manual Focus

While turning off autofocus might seem daunting at first, the rewards are immense. Manual focus offers:

• Greater creative control: You can choose exactly where to focus, blurring out unwanted elements and emphasizing your subject.
• Enhanced sharpness: Manual focus allows you to fine-tune focus for optimal clarity, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
• A deeper understanding of photography: Understanding manual focus unlocks a new level of understanding about how your camera and lens work.

A Final Word on Manual Focus

Mastering manual focus takes time and practice, but the results are worth the effort. By understanding the techniques and embracing the challenge, you’ll unlock a world of creative possibilities and elevate your photography to new heights.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use autofocus for certain shots and manual focus for others?

Absolutely! The Canon 60D allows you to switch between autofocus and manual focus modes as needed. You can even use the AF/MF switch on your lens to quickly toggle between the two.

2. How do I know if my lens has an AF/MF switch?

Most modern lenses do have an AF/MF switch. If your lens doesn‘t have a switch, you’ll need to use the camera’s menu or the Focus Mode button to switch between autofocus and manual focus.

3. What is the best way to focus manually in low light?

Low light conditions make manual focus more challenging. Try using a tripod to minimize camera shake and use Live View with focus peaking to help you achieve sharp focus.

4. Can I use manual focus with a flash?

Yes, you can use manual focus with a flash. However, keep in mind that the flash will illuminate your subject, making it easier to focus manually.