Backyard Bird Photography

Step 7 Focus

Focus is just as important as exposure.

Points for consideration here include:

Auto-focus settings
depth of field

And the D80 has several configurable settings. I prefer to set the Auto-Focus Area mode to a single point. This is setting is found deep in the menus and narrows the area that the auto-focus mechanizm will consider.

Then there are 2 focus modes available via the buttons on the camera body, Single Servo and Continuous.

The Continuous mode is usually great for moving objects. If the object is moving towards or away from you, the camera will continue to refocus giving you a better chance of a sharp picture.

I find that the Continuous auto-focus capability of the D80 and this particular lens do not focus fast enough to capture the finch where I want him/her.

So, I use the Single Servo setting, focusing either on the feeder itself or an object temporarily placed next to the feeder. I then turn the Auto-focus off and reposition the camera to the area I expect the birds to fly into and try to capture them as they come in for a landing.

Keep in mind that the faster the shutter speed you are using, the wider the aperture must be  limiting the depth of field which is the area that an object will be in focus. With a very small depth of field, that bird must be in the pocket to get a sharp in-focus picture. So set your focus carefully and, if needed, aim for a smaller aperture allowing for that wider window of area that will be in focus. I know I stated that "closer is better" in step 3, but if you need a wider depth of field to get these guys in focus, then move back and zoom in. Depth of field area that is in focus is shorter the closer you are no matter what the f stop.

One last thing, Nikon recommends that you turn off Vibration Reduction (makes for sharper pictures? I am not sure the reason.) when using a tripod. Remember to turn it back on when you shift to hand holding.

Comments

[oddstray]

In general, the VR algorithm is always applied to your photos.  On a tripod, your focus is probably just where you want it.  Applying any algorithm is more likely to 'muddy up' the focus than to improve it.  But, Nikon's VR technology claims to be able to detect that you're using a tripod, so it may be OK to leave VR on when using a tripod.

[unklstuart]

Thanks. That makes sense.

The manual for the Nikon 70-300 lens recommends to switch the VR off when using a tripod. I am told Canon says you may leave it on.