How can I get a tripod-mounted camera to focus on me for self-portraits?
Asked 3/15/2024
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I want to put an interchangeable-lens camera on a tripod, compose the shot, then step into the frame and have the camera focus sharply on my face before taking the photo. On my DSLR, focus seems to lock as soon as I start the self-timer. Is there a camera feature or spec I should look for to make this work, or is there a better way to shoot self-portraits with accurate focus?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
2y ago
2 Answers
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I am going to steal Xenoid's comment.
Depending on the model of your camera, you can try a wireless remote trigger. I have used the Amazon basics on a Nikon. They are as cheap as $15.
See your user´s manual to see compatibilities. In general, they work with a decent DSLR even some years old. Try different patterns of focus points on your camera. If you have a framing defined, you can even try a single focus point.
These are in fact easier to use than self-timer, you can be in place and trigger several shots without the need to stand up. It also avoids the problem you have of the focus being locked on while triggering the timer.
Make some tests to see what aperture is open enough for your light and bokeh situation, and closed enough to have the depth of field you need to stay in focus.
Another option is that you leave the manual focus on a defined distance. But that is a very rudimentary approach.
See if your camera has a live view focus system. Cannon dual pixel is one good example.
If you want a new camera, one first thing to consider is a flip screen and then face or eye recognition and tracking, but again a remote trigger is a great asset to have.
Originally by user37321. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user37321
2y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—this is possible, but the exact behavior depends on the camera. On many DSLRs, autofocus locks when the self-timer starts, so the simplest workaround is to use a remote trigger instead of the self-timer. That lets you stand in position first, then trigger the shot so the camera can focus at the right moment. Check your camera manual for compatible wireless or wired remotes.
If your camera supports face detection autofocus, that can also help. On DSLRs this usually requires Live View; on mirrorless cameras it may be a normal AF mode. Whether face detect works with self-timer or remote release varies by model, so the manual/specs are important.
A reliable manual method is to place an object where you will stand, focus on it, then switch the lens to manual focus so focus stays fixed when you take the shot.
So, look for: face detection AF, Live View AF behavior, and whether autofocus is performed during self-timer or remote release.
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