One of the best features of Alpha cameras is the autofocus function. There are different types of autofocus for a variety of shooting conditions, and knowing what they are and what kind to use is essential in getting a crisp and clear image.

Autofocus [AF] is a system that automatically adjusts camera focus. Cameras typically have a two-stage shutter-release button. The first stage is lightly pressing the shutter-release button halfway to focus, and then the shutter-release button is pressed the rest of the way down. Manual focusing requires you to fiddle with the focus ring of the lens until you get to the right focus point, while autofocusing is just selecting a predetermined focus point.

AF-S [Single-shot AF]

This mode is the most basic autofocus function, and very straightforward. With this mode selected, it locks onto a single subject and will focus on it. Though if your subject were to move within the frame, it will not refocus again.

This mode often requires the subject to be in focus before allowing you to take a photo. Which means if the focus is not properly set, the shutter button will not work. Even after focus lock, you can change the composition of your photo while keeping the subject in focus. Eye-AF and real-time tracking can also be done in this mode with the same method.

This will give you more flexibility in framing creatively and takes off a huge worry on whether your subject is in focus or not.
 

AF-C [Continuous AF]

Unlike the previous autofocus mode where it locks onto a singular, static subject, this mode lets you track a moving subject. Meaning the focus will readjust if the subject moves. This is particularly useful when capturing fast-moving action shots for sports, or wildlife photography. If real-time tracking is enabled in the focus area, the AF accuracy will be enhanced.

Like the previous autofocus mode, real-time tracking and Eye-AF can be done in this mode.
 

AF-A [Automatic AF]

This mode is usually the default setting and is a hybrid AF that automatically switches between AF-S and AF-C. Basically, the camera recognises whether the subject is stationary or not and chooses the appropriate mode.

If the subject stays unmoving, it selects AF-S. If it moves, it will choose AF-C. This is mostly useful for beginners, or if you’re shooting multiple subjects at once or if you don’t want to change the AF mode manually.

DMF [Direct Manual Focus]

DMF is technology unique to Sony and can be used either as AF or MF. In a nutshell, DMF works the same as AF-S, however, after focusing, it will automatically switch to MF. When photographing small subjects like flowers, you can quickly focus with AF, and further adjust the focus settings with MF.

Autofocus has tons of advantages, and definitely makes your life easier as a photographer. Though of course there are some situations that require manual focus, like macro shooting which we’ll go more in-depth on in another guide.