What is the focus recompose technique?

9 years 7 months ago #403501 by Ryan711
I've seen this term used by a few photographers and I'm not 100% sure what they are referring too.  I picking up the obvious:  it has something to do with focusing your shots, is there a special trick that goes along with this.  Or just a general term?  


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 months ago #403507 by garyrhook
It means that you aim the camera and push the shutter button halfway down to lock the focus. While holding that button you move your camera to get the shot you want.

If you have a button to hold focus (i.e. a button (on the back) of the camera that you can hold to lock the current focus) it's a bit easier to implement this technique. Trying to hold the shutter release half-way down can be challenging (he says, from experience, until he learned more about his camera).


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 months ago #403523 by KCook
Back in 35mm SLR days the only focus aids were located in the center of the field so you had no choice but to focus first, centered on the object desired, then shift the frame away to get the composition you wanted.  Auto focus points on today's cameras are arrayed around the frame.  In theory the camera's AF programming will find a good point somewhere in the frame to latch onto for focus.  But in practice you may still need to use a fixed point of your choice instead.  My Canon DSLR AF does a reasonable job of finding a useful focus point.  My mirrorless camera, not so much.  So I am more likely to use the center point focus, then re-compose, with my mirrorless.

Kelly Cook

Canon 50D, Olympus PL2
kellycook.zenfolio.com/

,
9 years 6 months ago #404005 by Joves
:agree:  :goodpost:
Yeah Kelly nailed the why it even needed to be one in the old days. I do not even bother with it at all with my digital cameras. Floating the AF point where I want it is way easier.
There are many techniques from the old days that I do not miss at all. Like the way that when you stopped down the split prisms became difficult to use because they darkened so much. So you literally had to focus, then stop down to your desired depth of field. I am glad I got old when photography became easier.


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024