In Focus

Nikon D5000 viewfinder and auto focus points

Photo taken from Google Images

So as simple of a subject as this may be, it still needs to be touched on before I eventually start talking about manual functions. Basically, when taking a photograph you want a picture as sharp as possible. There is a button, or shutter release, on the camera that you push down in order to take your photograph. Before releasing the shutter you want to gently push the button half way down to ensure an in focus photograph. Basically if are not doing this, you are risking the chances of having an out of focus picture as an end result.

Auto Focus is a great feature. On your lens, there should be a switch that says “A” and “M” standing for auto focus, and manual focus. In order to use your camera on auto focus you must have the switch turned to “A”. When looking through the viewfinder on auto focus, you will notice little red squares that are known as focus points that help to focus on a certain part of the subject. After you have selected how you want to arrange the subject in the viewfinder, push the shutter button half way down to allow auto focus to occur, followed by pushing the shutter fully down. Probably about 90% of the time a photographer should be able to use the auto focus without worry of capturing the image.

Your other focus technique would be manual focus or “M” on the lens. Manual focus can be a great feature as well if you no how to properly use it. One reason its great is for when your auto focus will not pick up on the subject such as if it were to dark. Manual focus is basically controlled by using the end of the lens to adjust left and right or its sharp and soft focus. A good time you may find yourself using manual focus is when on a windy day and your auto focus will not stabilize long enough on a flower that may be shifting back and fourth in the wind.