What are the benefits and challenges of using focus tracking in video?

1 Benefits of focus tracking

Focus tracking can help you achieve sharp and smooth focus on your subject without having to manually adjust the focus ring or use a follow focus device. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you are working solo or in a fast-paced environment. Focus tracking can also enhance the storytelling and visual impact of your video, by creating a sense of depth, movement, and connection between the subject and the background.

2 Challenges of focus tracking

Focus tracking can sometimes fail or produce undesired results. For example, it may lose track of the subject if it moves too quickly, too far away, or out of the frame. Additionally, the camera may switch focus to a different subject or object that enters the frame or is closer to the lens. Furthermore, focus tracking may cause the camera to hunt or pulse the focus, creating a distracting or jittery effect. Lastly, the camera may not be able to track the subject in low-light, high-contrast, or complex backgrounds.

3 How to use focus tracking in video

To use focus tracking in video, you need to have a camera and lens that support this feature, as well as set up your camera settings and modes according to your shooting scenario and preferences. Generally, you should choose the focus mode that best suits your subject and style such as continuous or servo autofocus for moving subjects or single autofocus for stationary subjects. Additionally, select the focus area or point that covers your subject or the part of the subject that you want to track, such as face or eye detection, zone, spot, or flexible spot. Then activate the focus tracking function by pressing the shutter button halfway or a dedicated button or switch on your camera or lens. Monitor the focus indicator on your screen or viewfinder and adjust your framing and composition as needed. Finally, press the shutter button fully to start recording.

4 Tips and best practices for focus tracking

Focus tracking can be a powerful and creative tool; however, it requires some skill and practice to use it effectively. Before shooting, test your camera and lens performance and settings, and adjust them as needed. Utilize a tripod, gimbal, or stabilizer to minimize camera shake and movement. When focusing, keep the subject in the center or within the focus area or point as much as possible. Additionally, avoid sudden or erratic movements of the camera or the subject. If the focus tracking is unreliable or inconsistent, use manual focus or pre-focus. To create a clear separation between the subject and the background, use a shallow depth of field or a fast aperture.

5 Examples of focus tracking in video

To provide you with some examples of focus tracking in video, here are some links to videos that illustrate this feature in different genres and styles. These are not endorsements or recommendations, but rather serve as references. For example, a documentary-style video uses focus tracking to follow a wildlife photographer in action, while a cinematic-style video applies it to create dramatic and emotional shots of a dancer. Additionally, a vlog-style video uses focus tracking to capture the personality and expressions of the vlogger.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?