Canon 7D manual AF Shooting Mode Options, AF Point Selection Options

QuickGuide to EOS 7D Autofocus Modes

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This QuickGuide provides the information you will need to take full advantage of the Canon EOS 7D’s versatile

19-point autofocus system, five AF-point selection modes, and three AF shooting modes. The EOS 7D is adaptable to practically any shooting style and subject while providing you with full control and continuous feedback. The more familiar you are with its capabilities, the better your ability to apply them to your needs and subject matter.

These instructions assume you are familiar with the location of basic controls such as the Main Dial on the front of the camera, immediately behind the shutter button, and the Quick Control Dial, Set Button (in the center of the Quick Control Dial) and Multi-controlleron the back. We

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also assume you will be using a Canon EF-compatible lens with the AF/MF switch set to AF. The additional AF-specific controls you will also need to be familiar with include the:

Multi-function (M-Fn) Button  AF· Drive Button

 AF Point Selection Button

AF SHOOTING MODE OPTIONS

One Shot AF

In this mode the AF system is set to focus on a stationary object. Once the system has confirmed sharp focus, a half- press on the shutter button will lock focus. You can then re-compose (if you wish) before you release the shutter.

AI Servo AF

In this mode the AF system is set to detect a moving subject, focus on it, and maintain focus as you release the shutter. This mode is ideal for subjects moving in three-dimensional space; that is, toward or away from the camera.

AI Focus AF

The AF system will automatically choose between One Shot AF or AI Servo AF based on whether it perceives the subject to be still or in motion. Keep in mind, however, that because AI Focus may not always be able to discriminate between subject and camera motion, you will have more predictable results if you choose One Shot AF for stationary subjects or AI Servo AF for subjects in motion.

Also note that automatic AF point selection and the viewfinder display will function differently depending on whether the EOS 7D is set to One Shot or AI Servo AF. We will highlight these differences throughout this QuickGuide.

AF Mode Selection

To select an AF mode, press the AF· Drive Button, then turn the Main Dial until the mode of your choice appears on the LCD panel on top of the camera.

AF POINT SELECTION OPTIONS

Automatic AF Point Selection (Default Mode)

In this mode all 19 AF points are active. You'll see a thin border around the entire AF point area, which indicates that Automatic AF point selection is active. In One-Shot AF Mode, the 7D will focus on the closest subject with adequate detail. The point(s) being used will appear on- screen.

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If you are in AI Servo AF Mode you can pre-select any of the 19 AF points to use as the starting point to begin tracking your subject. If the subject moves away from that point, the camera will automatically select new points and continue to maintain focus. The new points will appear in the finder so you always know what the camera is doing.

To pick a starting AF point in Servo AF Mode, first press the rear AF Point Selection Button , then use either the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial or Multi-controllerto move the red highlight in the viewfinder to the starting point of your choice.

Best for: Candids and other non-moving subjects where you want to quickly focus on whatever is closest to the camera, or single moving subjects that you expect will move across the composition as you continue to shoot. Not recommended for: Situations where you need precise control over the point of focus.

Zone AF Point Selection

Zone AF works the same way as Automatic AF point selection except that it restricts the AF points to a small cluster (zone) you have pre-selected. Within this zone the system will focus on the closest subject with adequate detail, even if you're in Servo AF Mode.

You can select from one of five zones: the nine-point cluster in the center of the viewfinder or a four-point triangular cluster to the left, right, above, or below the center. Whichever zone you select, its size and location are fixed. Within the zone you select, the camera will function just as it would if all 19 points were active.

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