Can I manually fine-tune focus after half-pressing the shutter on a Canon T5i with an STM lens?
Asked 12/31/2013
5 views
2 answers
0
I’m new to DSLRs and have a Canon T5i with the 18-135mm IS STM lens. When I manually focus, I like using the viewfinder focus confirmation dot, but it only appears after I half-press the shutter. Is it safe to half-press the shutter and then manually adjust focus? Could that damage the camera or lens? Also, is there a better way to judge focus when focusing manually on this camera?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
2
Yes, STM lenses do allow manual focusing override after auto-focus has locked (indicated by camera beep, which can be turned off in camera options). STM lenses focus should not be adjusted manually when in AI-Servo focusing mode (i.e. when the lens is constantly seeking for focus), nor before engaging AF when the lens is switched to AF mode. An USM lens would allow manual focusing also during AI-Servo auto-focusing.
The viewfinder on the Canon T5i is not optimized for manual focusing; a good alternative is to use magnification in Live View.
Originally by user4390. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4390
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes — on your Canon 18-135mm IS STM lens, it’s generally fine to half-press the shutter, let autofocus lock, and then manually fine-tune focus. STM lenses support manual focus override after AF has locked.
A few cautions:
- Don’t manually turn the focus ring while the lens is actively autofocusing.
- In AI Servo, the camera continuously adjusts focus, so manual adjustment is not recommended in that mode.
- Don’t force manual focus adjustments before AF is engaged if the lens is still set to AF mode.
This won’t harm the camera or lens if used as above.
For more accurate manual focusing, the T5i’s optical viewfinder is not ideal. A better option is to use Live View and magnify the image on the screen to check critical focus more precisely.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI12y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Why won’t my Nikon D5500 autofocus when I half-press the shutter?
How do I program a Fotodiox/Dandelion M42-to-EF chipped adapter for focus confirmation?
Why does focus shift when I switch my Canon 77D lens from AF to MF?
New Nikon D5300 beeps and shows focus confirmation, but the image isn't focused for 2–3 seconds
Nikon D3100 won’t release the shutter in autofocus mode with the 18-55mm kit lens