Which focus mode?

[Boynielaad]

I have 3 modes on my A300 -

1 - Focus on something and the camera remains focussed on it regardless.

2 - Focus on something and the camera will refocus if the subject moves.

3 - Focus is continuous as the camera moves and different subjects enter the viewfinder.


With my previous AF camera I used to focus on the subject and then compose the shot. Easy. Unless the subject moved and you had to reficus and then reframe.

Now, I have the choice depending on the subject matter.

The question is: which mode do I leave the camera on and use as a default?

What is your preferred focus mode and why?

 

[arclight]

I think it depends on what forms the bulk of your photography

For me, number 1 suits most of my needs.

My camera has 2 auto focus modes + manual and switching between them is fast because it is done by means of a small lever near the lens mount so I don't actually think about having a default setting and don't need to take the camera from my eye to change.
However, if you need to delve into menus to change the focussing mode then it is probably advantageous having the camera set at the mode that meets the bulk of your needs.

 

[Marc]

I have 3 modes on my A300 -

1 - Focus on something and the camera remains focussed on it regardless.

2 - Focus on something and the camera will refocus if the subject moves.

3 - Focus is continuous as the camera moves and different subjects enter the viewfinder.


With my previous AF camera I used to focus on the subject and then compose the shot. Easy. Unless the subject moved and you had to reficus and then reframe.

Now, I have the choice depending on the subject matter.

The question is: which mode do I leave the camera on and use as a default?

What is your preferred focus mode and why?

Bit confused as #2 is continuous autofocus, in which case what mode is #3 called?

In answer to your question, if it moves then use Continuous AF (Or you could use single shot if panning), if it doesn't move then use single shot AF. Not sure of an instance where you would want to continuously autofucus on different subjects enter the viewfinder in one shot.