Back Button Focus for Photographers

The Benefits of Using Back Button Focus for Photographers

As a photographer, it is essential to have the right camera settings to capture the perfect shot. One of the most crucial settings is focusing, and while most photographers rely on the shutter button to focus on their subjects, there is another way of doing it: back button focusing. This method involves assigning the focusing function to a button on the back of your camera instead of relying on the shutter release button. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using back button focus and why it is a game-changer for photographers.

Precise Focus Control

The primary advantage of using back button focus is the ability to have more precise control over where you focus your camera. When you use the shutter button to focus, the autofocus system is activated each time the button is pressed, which can be frustrating. In contrast, with back button focus, once the focus is locked on, you won’t need to worry about accidentally refocusing when you press the shutter button. This accuracy is particularly helpful when capturing fast-moving objects in which the slightest movement can affect the autofocus’s accuracy.

Improved Shooting Speed

With BB focus, photographers can shoot significantly faster since they do not have to wait for the lens to focus after every shot. When you use this technique, the focus is already locked on, so you won’t have to worry about refocusing before snapping your next shot. This advantage is especially useful when photographing fast-moving subjects such as wildlife, sports, or street photography.

Better Control of Depth of Field

Depth of Field (DoF) refers to the amount of distance between the closest and farthest objects that appear sharp in an image. Back button focus grants photographers a greater degree of control over the depth of field in their images. By using this method of focusing, you can quickly switch between single or continuous focus modes, ensuring that the image’s focus remains consistent while adjusting aperture settings to control the DoF.

Improved Autofocus in Low Light

When shooting in low light conditions, the camera’s autofocus system can struggle to lock onto a subject. With back button focus, you can overcome this issue by pre-focusing on the target area, regardless of how dark or challenging the conditions are. This method of focusing also ensures that the focus is locked on even if you need to bump up the ISO or slow down the shutter speed to compensate for the low light.

Using back button focus can be a complete game-changer for photographers. It provides greater control over the focus, speed, and depth of field, making it easier to capture sharp images in a variety of challenging situations. While it may take some getting used to, incorporating back button focus into your photography workflow can help take your skills to the next level. Experiment with it, and you’re sure to notice a difference in your photos in no time.