TIP: If you follow the suggestions for focus and exposure and your image does not appear to be in proper focus or exposure when viewed in
Playback, see the topics on blurry, dark, light, or grainy images in “Troubleshooting” on page 44.
Optimizing focus
When the camera cannot auto focus, the focus brackets turn red. This indicates the picture may be out of focus because the subject is out of the focus range or the scene has low contrast.
If you are recording a video or taking a picture with a shooting mode (see “Using the shooting modes” on page 17) other than 
For pictures and video clips: If the scene has low contrast, use Focus Lock (see
“Using Focus Lock” on page 13) and aim at a point on the subject that has more colors or crisp edges.
For pictures only:
•Select a shooting mode more appropriate for the scene you are capturing (see “Using the shooting modes” on page 17).
•If the subject is too close (less than 100 mm or 3.94 in), move farther away from the
subject or use 
If the camera is set to 
•Move within the 
camera to 
Auto (see Auto under “Using the shooting modes” on page 17).
•In low contrast scenes, use Focus Lock (see “Using Focus Lock” on page 13).
Using Focus Lock
Use Focus Lock to focus on a subject that is not in the center of the picture, to capture action shots more quickly by
1.Frame the subject for your picture within the focus brackets. In low light or low contrast situations, frame a brighter or higher contrast object.
2.Press the Shutter button halfway down.
Auto focus and exposure | 13 |