What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of back button focus on the Canon 80D, explaining how it works, its benefits, and how to set it up.
- However, back button focus (BBF) separates these functions, assigning focus to a dedicated button on the back of your camera.
- Since the shutter button is only used for capturing the image, there’s no need for the camera to initiate both focus and capture simultaneously.
Are you tired of the frustration of your Canon 80D focusing on the wrong subject? Do you wish you had more control over your focus point? If so, then mastering back button focus is a game-changer. This technique empowers you to take control of your focus, leading to sharper images and a more intuitive shooting experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of back button focus on the Canon 80D, explaining how it works, its benefits, and how to set it up.
Understanding the Basics of Back Button Focus
Traditionally, photographers rely on the shutter button to initiate both focus and capture. However, back button focus (BBF) separates these functions, assigning focus to a dedicated button on the back of your camera. This seemingly small change unlocks a world of advantages, particularly for action, wildlife, and sports photographers.
Why Choose Back Button Focus?
Let’s explore the key reasons why back button focus is a valuable tool for Canon 80D users:
1. Enhanced Focus Control: By decoupling focus from the shutter button, you gain precise control over when your camera focuses. This is crucial for fast-paced photography where a split-second delay can mean the difference between a sharp image and a blurry disappointment.
2. Continuous Focus for Action: With BBF, you can continuously track your subject while holding the focus button down. This is especially beneficial for photographing moving subjects, ensuring they remain in focus throughout their movement.
3. Reduced Shutter Lag: Since the shutter button is only used for capturing the image, there’s no need for the camera to initiate both focus and capture simultaneously. This eliminates the lag associated with traditional shutter-based focusing, allowing you to capture fleeting moments with greater accuracy.
4. Improved Composition: By freeing the shutter button from focusing duties, you can concentrate on framing your shot and composing your image. This allows for a more natural and intuitive shooting experience.
Setting Up Back Button Focus on Your Canon 80D
Now, let’s get your Canon 80D ready for back button focus:
1. Access the Custom Functions Menu: Press the Menu button on your camera and navigate to the Custom Functions (C.Fn) menu.
2. Find the Focus Settings: Within the C.Fn menu, locate the “Focus” section. This is often categorized under the “Shooting” or “Camera” tab.
3. Assign Focus to a Back Button: Look for the option that allows you to customize the function of a back button. Typically, this is labeled as “Custom Controls” or “Button Functions.”
4. Choose the Desired Button: Select the back button you want to use for focus. The most common choice is the “AF-ON” button, but you can also use other buttons depending on your preference.
5. Set the Function: Assign the “AF-ON” button to “Focus Start.” This will ensure that the camera focuses only when you press and hold the button.
6. Confirm and Test: Exit the menu and test your new setup. Press and hold the “AF-ON” button to focus on your subject. Release the button to stop focusing.
Mastering Back Button Focus: Tips and Techniques
Now that you have back button focus set up, let’s explore some techniques to optimize your workflow:
1. Practice Makes Perfect: Consistency is key. Practice using back button focus in various scenarios to develop muscle memory and a natural workflow.
2. Utilize the AF-ON Button: The “AF-ON” button is ideal for back button focus, as it’s readily accessible and designed for this purpose.
3. Experiment with Focus Modes: Explore different autofocus modes (Single Shot AF, AI Servo AF, etc.) to find the best setting for your shooting style and subject.
4. Use the Focus Lock Technique: Press and hold the “AF-ON” button to focus on your subject. Then, recompose your shot while holding the button down. Release the button to capture the image. This ensures sharp focus even when you change your composition.
5. Consider Autofocus Point Selection: With back button focus, you have greater control over your autofocus point. Experiment with different points to find the best position for your subject.
6. Embrace the Half-Press: While the shutter button is no longer used for focusing, you can still use the half-press to activate the metering system and assess exposure.
The Advantages of Back Button Focus: A Photographer’s Perspective
Back button focus has revolutionized my photography workflow. It has significantly improved my ability to capture sharp images in challenging situations. Here are some real-world examples of how back button focus has benefited me:
- Wildlife Photography: Tracking a bird in flight is much easier with back button focus. I can continuously adjust the focus point as the bird moves, ensuring sharp images throughout its flight path.
- Sports Photography: Capturing athletes in action requires quick reflexes and precise focus. Back button focus allows me to focus on the athlete while simultaneously adjusting my composition, ensuring I get the perfect shot.
- Portrait Photography: Back button focus helps me maintain focus on my subject’s eyes, even as I move around to find the best angle. This results in more compelling and flattering portraits.
The Journey Continues: Beyond the Basics
As you become more comfortable with back button focus, you can explore advanced techniques to further enhance your photography:
- Focus Bracketing: Use back button focus to capture multiple images with different focus points, creating a focus stack for exceptional depth of field.
- Micro-Adjusting Focus: Fine-tune your lens’s autofocus performance by adjusting the focus point based on your specific shooting needs.
- Customizing Your Camera: Explore other custom functions and settings to personalize your camera and optimize it for your specific shooting style.
Embracing the Future of Focus: A New Era of Photography
Back button focus is more than just a technique; it’s a paradigm shift in how photographers interact with their cameras. By embracing this approach, you unlock a world of creative possibilities, empowering you to capture the world with greater precision and artistry.
Information You Need to Know
1. Can I use back button focus with all lenses?
Yes, back button focus works with most Canon lenses, including both autofocus and manual focus lenses.
2. Is back button focus suitable for beginners?
While it requires some initial adjustment, back button focus is accessible to photographers of all levels. It’s a valuable skill to learn, regardless of your experience.
3. Will back button focus slow down my shooting?
On the contrary, back button focus can actually speed up your workflow by eliminating the lag associated with traditional shutter-based focusing.
4. Can I use back button focus with other camera features like continuous shooting?
Absolutely! Back button focus is compatible with various camera features, including continuous shooting, burst mode, and autofocus modes.
5. What if I want to switch back to traditional focusing?
You can easily switch back to traditional focusing by returning the “AF-ON” button to its default setting in the Custom Functions menu.
