Can a Canon EOS 77D re-focus when using the self-timer for group or self-portraits?
Asked 3/8/2018
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I use a Canon EOS 77D on a tripod for vacation self-portraits. Typically I set a 10-second self-timer with multiple shots, then walk into the frame. The problem is the camera seems to lock focus when I start the timer, so the background is sharp but I am blurry.
Is there any camera setting that makes the 77D focus at the moment each timed shot is taken, or re-focus between shots in a timed series? I tried AI Servo, but it did not solve it. I know a remote or phone app could help, but I’m specifically asking whether this is possible with the built-in timer alone.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
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When setting my Canon camera on a timer, how do I force it to focus at the time the shot is taken instead of when the timer is set?
I'm pretty sure with the 77D (as well as most other Canon DSLRs) you can't.
Most instruction manuals and 'how-to' books recommend using a dummy target the same distance as you plan to stand from the camera. You can either use AF (autofocus) to focus on it and then set the lens' switch to MF (manual focus) or set focus mode to MF and use the dummy target to manually focus on the spot you intend to stand.
I'm also aware I can use a Bluetooth/IR remote or connect the camera to my phone, but a simple timer is a lot easier and faster.
Wi-Fi might not be simple or fast, but the BR-E1 remote is pretty simple and fast. It also allows you to do exactly what you want. It only needs to be set up once to be paired with your camera. After that it is probably easier and faster than messing with the timer each time you want to set up to do this would be, if the timer even allowed you to delay AF until right before the exposure is made.
The Wireless Remote Control BR-E1 uses the 77D's Bluetooth capability to allow a remote user to control AF, shutter actuation, and even starting/stopping video recording. It works with all Bluetooth capable Canon cameras.
From Canon's listing of the BR-E1:
A wireless remote controller compatible with Bluetooth enabled cameras for wireless focusing, still shooting and video recording, and zooming using the Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E1. Operating distance is approximately 16 ft in any direction.
Note that several infrared remotes made by Canon will not work on the 77D and other Bluetooth enabled cameras that did not have an IR receiver on the front of the camera.
Originally by user15871. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user15871
8y ago
0
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On the EOS 77D, the built-in self-timer generally does not re-focus at the instant each shot is taken. It typically uses the focus acquired when you start the timer.
The usual workaround is to pre-focus on a stand-in object placed where you will stand, then switch the lens or camera to manual focus so focus stays locked for the shot sequence.
If you want the camera to focus closer to the time of exposure, a remote trigger is the simplest Canon-supported option mentioned. Another possible workaround is Live View with continuous AF enabled, which can keep adjusting focus, but that depends on the shooting mode and may not be ideal for every setup.
For some Canon models, third-party Magic Lantern firmware can automate focus attempts during timed shooting, but it is not available for the 77D.
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