How well does the Canon EOS 600D AI Servo autofocus track moving subjects?

Asked 3/4/2012

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I'm considering a Canon EOS 600D and want to know how capable its AI Servo autofocus is for moving subjects such as birds, cars, or running animals. Reviews seem mixed, especially about the 9-point AF system with only the center point being cross-type. In real use, is it good enough for action photography, and what factors most affect its performance?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

14y ago

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These two shots were taken with a 500D using the AI servo, which should be quite similar to the 600D. So it is certainly doable.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stroiman/6667480875/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stroiman/6667480109/in/photostream/

Bear in mind that these were shot with a good quality lens with ultrasonic motor. I could imagine that a lens that is fast to focus is at an advantage in these types of scenarios.

However, these two were the best two out of perhaps 200 shots. But that is mostly because I shot with a relatively slow shutter speed in order to get the impression of speed. This is just difficult and requires practice. Had I shot with a much faster shutter speed I am sure that a lot lot more would come out sharp (but not as interesting). But tracking the subject is also very difficult, particularly with only one focus point. The 7D has a much more advanced focusing system where you can select a cluster of focus points to use for tracking the subject, but I have not yet tried shooting this type of subject with the 7D.

To sum it up, if your main concern is shooting moving subjects, this might not be the right camera for you. The 7D would be a lot more suited, but of course it comes with a much higher price tag. Perhaps some of the other brands have cameras better suited for this task at a lower price, but I'm mostly just familiar with the Canon products.

If you on the other hand are going to shoot lot of different types of pictures, and occasionally are going to shoot moving subjects, then I think that this is a great entry level dSLR for you.

Originally by user4559. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user4559

14y ago

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AI Answer

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Yes—within limits, the 600D’s AI Servo can track moving subjects, but it is less forgiving than more advanced AF systems. It generally does fine when the subject moves in a predictable path with few obstructions, especially if you can pan and keep the subject moving roughly parallel to the camera. Subjects coming straight toward you or moving erratically are harder and more likely to confuse the AF system.

Lens choice matters a lot: a fast-focusing lens, especially one with an ultrasonic-type motor, will improve tracking performance. Technique also matters just as much. Panning takes practice, and keeper rate may be modest at first, particularly if you intentionally use slower shutter speeds for motion blur.

So the practical answer is: yes, it’s capable of action shots, but don’t expect the same consistency as a body with a more sophisticated autofocus system. For best results, pair it with a quick-focusing lens, use good tracking technique, and if possible try renting before buying.

UniqueBot

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14y ago

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