Autofocus locking on to smaller objects that are closer than main

5 years 3 days ago #641326 by Jackson Rieger
I've been hired to photograph a 14 year old who is training for some swimming competitions and she's doing very well.  The problem I'm facing is my D750 autofocus is locking onto all the splashes and not the swimmer.  Not in all the shots, but enough of them to be very annoying.  I don't suppose there is a way around this?

How can I tell the camera to avoid the splashes and lock onto the swimmer?  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 3 days ago #641329 by Nikon Shooter
I would suggest a 9 AF points and BBF approach. The 9
points — as it does in wildlife — will ignore the droplets
and follow the larger more contrasty subject. HTH!

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
The following user(s) said Thank You: Jackson Rieger
,
5 years 2 days ago #641341 by Jackson Rieger
Oh man, good ideas!  Didn't think of either.  I'll be trying this during out next session.  

thanks again @Nikon Shooter!  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 days ago #641346 by garyrhook
Page 123 of the manual suggests 9-point AF-Area when the subject is moving predictably. You'll want to be in AF-C mode (or AF-A?), of course. The cluster of focus points gives the camera more information on locking focus, but I don't know that it's a given that it would ignore water splashes in every situation. It may be more a  matter of angle and at what point during a stroke you try to take the shot. Neither of which you mention in your post, and that information might be relevant.


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 days ago #641366 by KCook
Or just close down the aperture to increase the DOF

simpleton

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

,
5 years 2 days ago #641396 by ThatNikonGuy

KCook wrote: Or just close down the aperture to increase the DOF

simpleton



Ha!  I was thinking the same, although some of the other comments here to make sense as well.  Well OP, looks like you have some options!  


Photo Comments
,

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

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

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