What’s the difference between the lens AF/MF switch and Auto mode on a Canon DSLR?
Asked 8/15/2020
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2 answers
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On a Canon 1300D with a telephoto lens, I’m confused about two different controls: the AF/MF switch on the lens and the Auto mode on the camera’s mode dial. When should each one be used? Does Auto mode make the lens autofocus even if the lens is set to MF, or are these two settings separate?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
6y ago
2 Answers
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Auto Mode will use Autofocus if it's enabled (as will every other mode), but other than that, they're completely unrelated. If you want to focus manually, turn the AF/MF switch to MF, especially if the lens(es) you have doesn't allow for manual focus while AF is on (some do, some don't - read your manuals). If you want to not have to worry about shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance, etc., use Auto Mode, otherwise, if you want some level of control over one or more of those, pick the appropriate mode - again, read your manuals to know which modes control what parameters.
Originally by user68706. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user68706
6y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
They control different things and are not redundant.
The AF/MF switch on the lens controls focusing:
- AF = the lens can autofocus
- MF = you must focus manually
If the lens is set to MF, the camera’s Auto mode will not override it. The lens will stay in manual focus.
The Auto setting on the camera mode dial mainly controls exposure and camera settings for you, such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and often limits some autofocus options. With the lens set to AF, Auto mode will use autofocus in the way the camera decides is best. In other exposure modes, you may be able to choose AF point selection or AF mode yourself.
Use AF on the lens when you want autofocus. Use MF when you want to focus manually, especially if your lens does not support manual adjustment while AF is engaged. Use Auto mode when you want the camera to handle most settings; use other shooting modes when you want more control.
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